Zirkzee in as hamstring injury rules Brobbey out of Netherlands squad

The Netherlands have been forced into an early squad reshuffle ahead of their Nations League fixtures after Brian Brobbey withdrew through injury, with Joshua Zirkzee called up to replace him.

Brobbey was substituted in the 35th minute by Mexx Meerdink during Thursday's 1-1 draw with Germany at the Johan Cruijff Arena, an exit that allowed Felix Nmecha to open the scoring for the visitors. Cody Gakpo salvaged a point for the Oranje with a stoppage-time leveller, but the damage to Brobbey proved significant enough to rule him out of the upcoming fixtures.

The in-form Sunderland striker looked in visible discomfort as he left the pitch, clutching his hamstring, though the Dutch federation did not disclose the severity of the injury.

Zirkzee handed his chance to impress Xavi

The call-up offers Joshua Zirkzee the opportunity to impress new Netherlands boss Xavi, with the Manchester United forward set to make his first appearance for his nation since November 2024. Zirkzee has accumulated six caps for the Netherlands since making his debut against Turkiye in July two years ago.

What's next for the Oranje?

The Netherlands sit third in Group A2 following the first round of fixtures, with Greece at the top of the table after their 2-1 victory away to Serbia.

Serbia are the Netherlands' next opponents this Sunday, before Xavi's side travel to Greece and then welcome Serbia to Philips Stadion on October 4.