Louis van Gaalβs Netherlands have, on Sunday, been dealt a potential blow on the personnel front.
The player to have sparked concern across the Oranjeβs fanbase? Denzel Dumfries.
Wing-back Dumfries was afforded his latest start at club level earlier today, featuring for Inter Milan from his customary position on the right flank.
Just inside the closing 20 minutes, however, the former PSV Eindhoven standout was forced into a premature departure from the action, owing to what appeared to be a knee injury.
With the Netherlandsβ World Cup opener versus Senegal set to play out in just eight daysβ time, it remains to be seen whether Dumfries – an important member of his countryβs setup – will be available for selection.
πΈ – Denzel Dumfries had to leave the pitch with what looks to be a knee injury. pic.twitter.com/PCKWteHHEc
β ππ π ππππ π (@TheEuropeanLad) November 13, 2022
Elsewhere on the Dutch front, Louis van Gaal has also provided an insight into the wellbeing of another star member of his squad – Memphis Depay.
Boss van Gaal, though, nevertheless opted to call on the 28-year-old to join his squad in Qatar, in the hopes of Depay recovering fitness in time to play a central role.
Such an appearance will not come from the off on opening day, however.
This comes with van Gaal having confirmed that Depayβs ongoing fitness woes mean he will not be ready to start against Senegal.
Louis Van Gaal has confirmed that Memphis Depay will not start for the Netherlands in their first World Cup match against Senegal, as he is still recovering from an injury. pic.twitter.com/2cGyE3X3BC
β BarΓ§a Universal (@BarcaUniversal) November 13, 2022