Casper van Eijck reflects on career as Feyenoord club doctor

Casper van Eijck, a former surgeon and long-time club doctor for both Sparta and Feyenoord, has shared reflections on his dual career in his new book, ‘Extra Tijd’. He describes the stark contrast between his surgical work, which involved delivering life-altering medical news to families, and the often trivial concerns of professional footballers.

During his eleven-year tenure at Feyenoord, and a recent temporary return as an advisor at the request of Dick Advocaat and Robin van Persie, van Eijck observed the internal dynamics of the club. He noted that Van Persie lacked sufficient support during his time there and expressed criticism regarding modern injury rehabilitation protocols, specifically questioning the phased approach used to return players to training.

Van Eijck also commented on his professional relationships with various football figures, including Ronald Koeman, whom he defended against what he perceived as overly personal and disrespectful media treatment during the World Cup.