Dutch Eurovision hopeful Joost Klein set off for Sweden on Monday with “20 suitcases” and a big dose of self-confidence. 

Klein, currently third placed in the list of bookies’ favourites, told the AD that he is “my own biggest competitor”, as he headed for Malmö for rehearsals ahead of next week’s semi-finals. 

Klein’s first rehearsal on the song festival stage is on Tuesday and so far he has been tight-lipped about the performance. “You don’t film when a magician rehearses either, do you?” he said in answer to reporters’ questions. 

The 26-year-old will perform Europapa on stage for a live audience on May 9, ahead of Saturday’s final which, according to the bookies at least, he seems certain to qualify for.