Mueez Ajao
– Memphis Depay will miss out on the Netherlands’ opening World Cup game against Senegal, coach Louis van Gaal said on Sunday.
– The forward hurt his hamstring playing for the Dutch against Poland in the Nations League in September but this week told reporters he was fit to play after participating in training.
– “It will be a blow for us just like Sadio Mane missing for Senegal is a blow for them,” Van Gaal said of Monday’s Group A clash against the African champions in Doha.
Also Read: Netherlands World Cup Squad: Xavi Simons named in squad
Van Gaal: "Senegal are the champions of Africa and it won't be easy. They are missing Sadio Mané, but for us Memphis Depay won't start." pic.twitter.com/zF5f92bA9H
— 𝐀𝐅𝐂 𝐀𝐉𝐀𝐗 💎 (@TheEuropeanLad) November 20, 2022
– Van Gaal has insisted that players selected for matches be 100 per cent match fit and in form.
– Speaking to reporters after the training session, Depay said his training went well and was hopeful of playing the full 90 minutes.
– “Training has gone very well. I could do everything I do in a match, only then of course you go full for 90 minutes, over longer distances,” said Depay.
– Depay had also said he wants to contribute to his national team’s success at the FIFA World Cup.
– “It’s not really about whether I agree with the national coach. It’s about his vision, about what’s best for the team and for me. I want to contribute, not one game, but the whole tournament. I also have to be honest: sometimes I need to be protected from myself a little. I want so much,” Depay added.
– Depay had added that the injury has been mentally tough on him but insisted that it was part of being an athlete.
– “Mentally that has been tough.. I’ve struggled the past few weeks, but I’ve done everything I can to get fit. That’s part of being an athlete, it’s my job. But there is more to it than just training, especially mentally,” Depay added.
