Virgil van Dijk will not be playing for the Netherlands this week, with the Liverpool captain, who has been managing a minor injury in recent matches, getting some time off
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk.(Image: lex Broadway/Getty Images)
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has pulled out of international duty with the Netherlands after managing an injury in recent appearances for the Reds.
An official announcement from the Dutch FA has confirmed that Van Dijk and the Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey are both out of its upcoming matches against Greece and Germany. No replacements will be called up by head coach Xavi Hernandez.
Van Dijk has played a substantial amount of minutes for Liverpool under Andoni Iraola so far this season, usually alongside Jeremy Jacquet. The pair have formed a very promising partnership in the opening months of the campaign.
A couple of months ago, Van Dijk admitted it was a "massive decision" for him to continue playing for his country, though it always seemed likely that he would carry on.
After talks with Xavi, who took over from Ronald Koeman after the World Cup, the Liverpool skipper opted to play on.
"I had to feel the confidence and the combination of respect and joy and everything I wanted," Van Dijk explained.
Liverpool center-back Virgil van Dijk.
Liverpool center-back Virgil van Dijk.(Image: Alex Broadway/Getty Images)
"That was from the first second the case, so the conversation didn't need to be that long.
"But it was very good, so I am really looking forward to meeting up for the important four games (in the previous international break). Let's make the next two years at least an amazing time."
Liverpool returns with games against Manchester United and Everton in the Premier League, with a trip to Club Brugge in the Champions League in between.
The relentless schedule continues with two games per week through December, meaning the break will be good for Van Dijk.
Content Image
Content Image
Alisson Becker, another experienced player, is also staying on Merseyside. He was not selected by Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti.
"It's not that I will sit on the couch for a week and then come back to training," Alisson said on Sunday. "I still have to work hard but in my mind I can use the time to relax and be more with my family.
"It's a little bit against my will. What I always want is to be with the national team but I understand this is what I have at the moment and I will use this time and take the benefit from the rest."