Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has suggested he might rest key players in their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Lithuania. This could be a major boost for Liverpool manager Arne Slot, as several Liverpool stars are in contention to feature for the Dutch side.
Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, and Cody Gakpo are all potential starters for the Netherlands. With their place at next year's World Cup almost secured, Koeman might be tempted to give these players a break, potentially reducing the risk of injury and fatigue before they return to Liverpool.
The Netherlands are hosting Lithuania, aiming to solidify their qualification for the tournament. While Friday's draw against Poland didn't guarantee their spot, their strong position in the group – a three-point lead and a significant goal difference – makes it highly unlikely they will miss out.
"We need to assess the players' fitness levels and consider the bigger picture," Koeman stated in a recent press conference. "Qualifying is the priority, but we also need to be mindful of the players' workload, especially those who play regularly for their clubs."
This news will be welcomed by Arne Slot, who will be keen to have his key players back at Liverpool in top condition. The potential rest for Van Dijk, Gravenberch, and Gakpo could prove invaluable as Liverpool navigate a busy schedule.
Liverpool's Perspective
Liverpool fans will be watching the Netherlands vs. Lithuania game with keen interest. A comfortable victory for the Dutch, coupled with limited minutes for the Liverpool trio, would be the ideal scenario. This would allow the players to return to Anfield fresh and ready to contribute to Liverpool's campaign.
Lithuania's Challenge
Lithuania, on the other hand, face a tough task. They need a positive result against a strong Netherlands side to boost their own qualifying hopes. However, they will also be aware that a weakened Netherlands team could present them with a better opportunity to achieve their goal.
The game promises to be an intriguing encounter, with implications for both World Cup qualification and Liverpool's Premier League ambitions.