Xavi considers Virgil as right‑back option after Van Hecke injury

While the absence of Jan Paul van Hecke leaves a hole in the central defence of Orange, national team coach Xavi Hernández is considering placing Virgil van Dijk on the right side of the central line for the Nations League clash against Greece on Thursday.

Available options besides Virgil van Dijk

Jurriën Timber is fully recovered and is mentioned by Xavi as a logical replacement for Van Hecke. "We have several options," Xavi said, "Jurriën is fit and ready to play. The same applies to Jorrel Hato and Nathan Aké. We will decide that tomorrow."

Van Hecke's injury occurred during the match against Serbia, where he suffered a foot injury. He left the morning training and has returned to London to recover with Tottenham Hotspur.

Positional switch of the captain

At the press conference Xavi confirmed that he is considering moving Van Dijk from his usual left position to the right, a position he does not like to play. "Certainly, that is an option. If the team needs him there, he is ready for it," Xavi replied sharply.

Foot injury keeps Van Hecke out of the Oranje's trip to Greece

According to Xavi, Van Dijk, although right‑footed, has always played on the left side of the centre, both at Liverpool and with the Dutch national team. However, he could adapt if the situation requires it.

Besides Timber, Hato and Aké, the exact replacement for Van Hecke remains unclear; Xavi indicated that the decision will be announced tomorrow. "We still haven't decided. We'll do that tomorrow," he said.

The coach also emphasized the importance of keeping a cool head against a motivated Greek side, which has recently achieved good results. "It will be very tough, the stadium will be full, but we must keep our heads cool," Xavi concluded.