Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero has paid tribute to Netherlands head coach Louis van Gaal for playing a major part in helping him achieve success in his career.
Romero spent time being managed by Van Gaal during the Dutch coach's reign at AZ Alkmaar, and he believes that it was the guidance of the 62-year-old which has allowed him to feel at home on the biggest stage ahead of Wednesday's World Cup semi-final.
"After the drama in 2010 in South Africa, the critics and the low points - now we're in the semi-final against Holland and I'm playing against my old coach Louis van Gaal, whom I owe so much," the 27-year-old told De Telegraaf.
"When I came to AZ in 2007, I entered a new world. I spent my whole youth at Racing Club de Lavellaneda in Argentina, where I also made my debut. In the Netherlands I was a stranger.
"In the dressing room at AZ, we had to speak Dutch, but Van Gaal spoke to me in Spanish. That was very important for me to get through the first tough period. He was my saviour and for that reason my relationship with him is very good."
Romero has conceded just three goals in five games at this summer's World Cup.
