Netherlands lose Van Hecke as injury crisis deepens before Greece clash

Netherlands suffer another injury blow

The Netherlands have been dealt yet another injury setback, with Jan Paul van Hecke the latest player to withdraw from the Nations League squad and return to his club.

Van Hecke, who had started both of the Oranje's matches so far, was forced out on Wednesday after failing to recover from an issue sustained against Serbia on Sunday. He will play no further part in this international break, returning to his club for further treatment.

'He is a fighter' – Xavi rues the loss

The defender had partnered Virgil van Dijk at the heart of the back line, helping the team to a 1-1 draw with Germany and a 2-1 win over Serbia. Xavi admitted Van Hecke had tried to push through the pain before it became clear he could not continue.

"He took a knock against Serbia. He is a fighter, and he did try to keep going over the past few days. In training [on Wednesday], it became clear that the pain is too severe. That is a shame. But we still have 23 players left, and there are plenty of defenders among them."

It is the latest in a string of withdrawals for the Netherlands, who have already seen the likes of Donyell Malen, Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo pull out of the squad. Xavi, however, refused to use the absentees as an excuse.

"It is the match schedule; you can't do anything about it. You have to adapt."

No fear of Greece

The win over Serbia was Xavi's first since taking charge, and the Netherlands now turn their attention to Greece, who currently sit top of Group A2 after securing a shock 1-0 victory over Jurgen Klopp's Germany.

Despite his side's mounting injury problems, Xavi insisted the Oranje will not go into Thursday's clash with any trepidation.

"We cannot be afraid of Greece; we do have respect. They are doing well. They have a lot of talent, especially in the forward line. But it will be difficult."