Xavi reassures about Cody Gakpo's mild injury, the Oranje looks to duels

On Sunday, during the Netherlands' defeat to Serbia (1‑2), Cody Gakpo went off the field after just fifteen minutes. The striker slipped on a Serbian and had to be replaced immediately. Head coach Xavi discussed the situation later at the press conference.

Gakpo, who scored the first goal for the Netherlands under Xavi, left the field with pain in his ankle after being knocked off by a Serbian.

Xavi's assessment of the injury

Xavi said the injury appears to be minor and does not expect serious damage. “I don’t think so,” he said, adding: “It’s his ankle, but I’m not sure exactly. We’ll know more tomorrow.”

Ankle injury, Cody Gakpo leaves the Netherlands squad because

Ruben van Bommel came on for Gakpo in the squad and delivered a commendable performance. His effort gave the Netherlands some stability on the left side.

Outlook and options for the Netherlands

The next international match for the Netherlands takes place in four days, allowing the PSV striker possibly more minutes. Xavi is considering Noa Lang and Crysencio Summerville for the left flank, although Summerville has been playing continuously on the right since the World Cup.

On Thursday the Netherlands travel to Greece for the third fixture under Xavi. Afterwards the team will conclude the international break with a home match against Serbia.