Fresh international squad news has delivered a surprise for many Liverpool supporters after Jeremie Frimpong was omitted from the Netherlands’ latest World Cup squad.
Meanwhile, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, alongside Ryan Gravenberch and Cody Gakpo, all made the cut for the Dutch squad.
Frimpong’s omission has certainly raised eyebrows.
The attacking full-back has been one of the most explosive wide players in European football over the last two seasons and many expected him to be comfortably included.
Especially given his pace, creativity and ability to completely change games in transition.
However, the decision perhaps says a lot about how the Dutch national team still view him positionally.
Frimpong is outstanding offensively, but there have always been questions about where he best fits tactically at elite international level.
As:
- A wing-back
- A winger
- Or a traditional right-back
That uncertainty may still be counting against him.
For Liverpool fans though, the reaction will probably be mixed.
Some will feel Frimpong deserved inclusion.
Others may quietly welcome the fact he now gets extra recovery time ahead of a hugely important season at club level.
Especially if Liverpool continue viewing him as a major part of their attacking rebuild moving forward.
Meanwhile, the inclusion of Van Dijk, Gravenberch and Gakpo was expected.
Van Dijk remains the leader of the Dutch national side despite Liverpool’s difficult season.
Gakpo continues growing in importance internationally as one of the Netherlands’ most dangerous attackers.
And Gravenberch’s selection reflects how highly he is still rated despite Liverpool’s midfield struggles this season.
For Gravenberch especially, the international setup may actually help rebuild confidence after an inconsistent campaign at club level.
Because while supporters remain divided about Liverpool’s midfield balance, the Dutch national team still clearly believe strongly in his long-term potential.
The bigger talking point though remains Frimpong.
Leaving out a player with his attacking qualities will definitely spark debate across Dutch football.
And Liverpool supporters will now watch closely to see how he responds moving into next season.
Because if Frimpong uses this disappointment as motivation, Liverpool could end up benefiting massively from it.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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