Injury Woes for Netherlands Ahead of Key Euro 2024 Qualifiers

 Injury Woes for Netherlands Ahead of Key Euro 2024 Qualifiers

(L-R) Wout Weghorst of Holland, Jeremie Frimpong of Holland during the Training MenTraining Holland at the KNVB Campus on November 15, 2023 in Zeist Netherlands(Image-Getty)

The Netherlands national football team, already grappling with injuries, encountered another setback as defender Jeremie Frimpong sustained an injury during training, forcing his withdrawal from the upcoming European 2024 qualifiers against the Republic of Ireland and Gibraltar. The Dutch football association has officially confirmed Jordan Teze as Frimpong's replacement.

In an additional blow, Lutsharel Geertruida suffered an injury during Thursday's training session. Despite the setback, the Feyenoord defender is set to remain with the squad temporarily as the team awaits a quick recovery assessment ahead of the crucial match against Ireland on Saturday. A victory in this encounter would secure the Netherlands a coveted spot in next year's finals in Germany.

Frimpong now joins the ranks of Nathan Ake, Steven Bergwijn, and Brian Brobbey, becoming the fourth player to withdraw from the squad in the lead-up to the Euro 2024 qualifiers. To address these absences, Toulouse striker Thijs Dallinga and PSV Eindhoven's Teze have been called in as replacements.

Coach Ronald Koeman faces persistent challenges, having navigated the absence of key players such as Sven Botman, Mathijs de Ligt, Micky van de Ven, Tyrell Malacia, Frenkie de Jong, and Memphis Depay prior to the squad announcement.

Following the pivotal match against Ireland, the Dutch team will conclude their Group B campaign with an away fixture against Gibraltar. This match will be played in Faro, Portugal, adding to the complexities of an already challenging qualification campaign.