Tim Krul backs Tottenham duo as Van Dijk replacement for Netherlands

Tim Krul, former international and goalkeeper, has indicated that he would like to see the Tottenham Hotspur defenders Jan Paul van Hecke and Micky van de Ven together at the back for the Dutch national team, now that Virgil van Dijk is absent due to injury for the Nations‑League duel against Greece. He sees their partnership as a solid option for the defensive line.

Van Dijk missing

The captain is not fit enough to take part and therefore misses the Nations‑League matches against Greece and Germany, leaving the Dutch team to play without its regular defender. Krul emphasizes that Virgil is a true “shreeuwerd” who sets the tone and that his absence is a huge loss for any goalkeeper.

He adds that Van Dijk is a fantastic player, gigantic for keepers and a king in set‑piece situations. Yet Krul points out that the 31‑year‑old Virgil is getting older and that a moment will come when one must look at who can take his place.

Due to Van Dijk’s absence, Sepp van den Berg now also gets a chance with the Dutch team; Krul describes him as “a bit like Virgil, quite tall and just very good in possession”, and mentions his 24 years and great potential.

Nevertheless, Krul continues to prefer the Spurs duo, while Jurriën Timber remains an option for national coach Xavi. He believes that the combination of Van Hecke and Van de Ven can strengthen the Dutch defence.

The Netherlands and Greece will meet on Friday evening from 20:45 in Amsterdam in a Nations‑League‑League duel, with Van Dijk’s absence at the centre of attention.