Eddy Achterberg was a Dutch midfielder with a strong commitment and combative spirit, who excelled at FC Twente during the 1970s. He began his career at DOS Utrecht, but it was in Enschede that he truly found his place, becoming a key figure in the Tukkers' midfield for almost a decade. Although he wasn't the most technical or elegant player on the pitch, he made up for it with his reading of the game, marking ability, and tireless attitude, earning him the title of true "engine" of the team.

His playing style was direct, dynamic, and physical, often serving as the link between defense and attack. Achterberg wasn't limited to the role of a destroyer: he knew how to distribute the play with short, targeted passes, and he also frequently appeared at the edge of the box to finish. His determination and leadership earned him high respect within the squad, especially during Twente's European heyday, such as the run that took the team to the UEFA Cup final in 1975.

Despite his solid performances at the club, Achterberg was never called up to the Dutch senior squad, largely due to the fierce competition for the position at the time, with players like Willem van Hanegem, Arie Haan, Wim Jansen, and Johan Neeskens dominating the Oranje's midfield. Still, his consistent league performances cemented him as a mainstay for Twente in the 1970s.

Other Links:
Eddy Achterberg | Wikipedia English
Eddy Achterberg | Wikipedia Dutch
Eddy Achterberg | FC Twente Statistieken | Dutch
Eddy Achterberg elected honorary member of FC Twente | Tubantia.nl | Dutch

Videos:
'Heya de Keu' | ESPN Special - FC Twente Official YT Channel
Feyenoord 3 - 2 FC Twente (05-05-1974) | Highlights | Achterberg is n° 14
03/09/1973 | FC Amsterdam 2 - 3 FC Twente | Achterberg is n° 14 | Twente plays in blue