Ramiz Zerrouki has given himself a chance of returning to the Algeria squad after producing a timely run of form with FC Twente.

The 28-year-old midfielder was left out of Brahim Hemdani’s first squad for sporting reasons, but his recent performances have strengthened his case before Algeria’s November selection.

Zerrouki played the full 90 minutes as Twente recorded a remarkable 9-0 win away to Excelsior Rotterdam on Sunday. He also converted a penalty in the 71st minute, scoring his second goal of the season and earning a place in the weekend’s Africa-based players in Europe XI.

His first goal of the campaign had been more significant. Zerrouki scored the only goal against FC Thoune in the UEFA Conference League, securing three valuable points for his side.

Dutch media did not make him the central figure in the victory over Excelsior, with Wout Weghorst and Sondre Ørjasæter receiving much of the attention. However, they noted that Twente had been able to entrust Zerrouki with the penalty without hesitation.

That small indication of confidence will matter to a player attempting to recover the standing he held before his difficult spell at Feyenoord. Twente are now fourth in the Eredivisie on 23 points, level with third-placed PSV.

Zerrouki has not completely revived his career, but he is beginning to show greater consistency and is producing results in an environment he knows well.

Whether that will be enough to persuade Hemdani remains uncertain. His exclusion from the manager’s first squad was not widely met with disappointment among Algeria supporters. Some had even called for him to be dropped after a series of performances they considered too cautious and ineffective.

Zerrouki has long been viewed by critics as a slow and conservative midfielder. His failure to establish himself at a higher level with Feyenoord added to doubts over whether he could progress further.

Yet his shortcomings do not tell the whole story. Several Algeria managers have trusted him, he has won around 50 caps and has already worn the captain’s armband for the Fennecs. His tactical discipline, experience and passing ability remain useful qualities.

The competition for midfield places is now stronger. Nabil Bentaleb and Himad Abdelli are both developing well, while Hicham Boudaoui, Adem Zorgane and Yassine Titraoui also have strong claims. Hemdani made significant changes to that area of the team in his first squad.

Zerrouki’s inclusion in November is therefore far from certain. He should not be recalled solely because he has scored two goals, but neither should he be ruled out because of his unpopularity. If his improved performances continue, he deserves to be reassessed alongside the other options.

He may never become the spectacular midfielder some Algeria supporters want. But not every international player needs to be. Zerrouki’s task is to prove he can once again be a dependable choice, rather than a selection made by default.