Liverpool skipper Virgil van Dijk has been named in the Netherlands squad for their forthcoming UEFA Nations League matches
Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool and the Netherlands
Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool and the Netherlands(Image: Maja Hitij - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Virgil van Dijk has been named in the latest Netherlands squad - ending speculation the Liverpool captain could imminently retire from international football.
Van Dijk has been included in the 26-man party named by new Netherlands coach Xavi for the country's forthcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures.
The Oranje will play against Serbia home and away as well as hosting Germany and visiting Greece over the extended international window.
Van Dijk's future for his country was shrouded with uncertainty following the change in head coach with Ronald Koeman departing after the recent World Cup and the player having turned 35 in July.
Nevertheless, the defender believed he still had a role to play ahead of meeting Xavi, and said recently: "I feel that I can still be valuable and important to the team.
"If we see eye to eye on that, we have two good years ahead of us leading up to Euro 2028. And if not, then we'll see."
Xavi was at Anfield to see Van Dijk help Liverpool beat Atletico Madrid last week in their opening Champions League game, and held talks with the centre-back.
And now it has been confirmed Van Dijk will continue adding to his 96 caps for the Netherlands and could reach the century landmark next month.
Van Dijk has been joined in the Netherlands squad by Liverpool team-mates Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch along with the recalled Jeremie Frimpong, who failed to make the cut for the World Cup during the summer.