Ruben van Bommel To Start For Netherlands Against Greece?

With Cody Gakpo ruled out through injury, Ruben van Bommel could be in line for his first start for the Netherlands.

Gakpo was forced off during Sunday’s 2-1 victory over Serbia and will miss the upcoming Nations League matches against Greece and Serbia. The KNVB has confirmed that no replacement will be called up, with Xavi still able to call upon former PSV winger Noa Lang and Van Bommel.

The PSV attacker has already made an impact during his first two international appearances. He came off the bench against Germany and Serbia, producing a particularly memorable moment against Germany with a superb assist for Cody Gakpo’s late equaliser in the 1-1 draw.

Van Bommel also came close to scoring his first Netherlands goal against Serbia. Guus Til found him with a pass into space, but his effort was saved when Oranje were chasing a third goal.

With Gakpo now unavailable, Van Bommel’s opportunity could become more significant. The 21-year-old has impressed in limited minutes and could now be handed his first international start when the Netherlands travel to Greece on Thursday.

The Netherlands are also dealing with several other attacking absences. Donyell Malen, Justin Kluivert and Brian Brobbey are unavailable through injury, while PSV defender Lutsharel Geertruida has also left the squad.