Cody Gakpo has withdrawn from the Netherlands squad and will return to Liverpool after suffering an ankle injury during their Nations League victory over Serbia.
The Liverpool forward was forced off during the Netherlands’ 2-1 win in Belgrade after twisting his ankle following a challenge from Ipswich midfielder Sasa Lukic.
Gakpo attempted to continue after receiving treatment but was unable to shake off the problem and was eventually replaced by Ruben van Bommel shortly after the incident.
The Dutch football federation has now confirmed that Gakpo will not take part in the remainder of the international window.
The federation said the 26-year-old is not fit enough to remain with the squad, while Netherlands head coach Xavi Hernandez has decided against calling up a replacement.
Gakpo’s withdrawal will be closely monitored by Liverpool, particularly with the club’s return to Premier League action approaching.
The Netherlands forward has been an important attacking option for the Reds and his availability will now depend on the extent of the ankle problem and his recovery over the coming days.
The injury also adds to Liverpool’s growing concern over the fitness of their forwards during the international break.
Alexander Isak has already left the Sweden camp after sustaining a minor injury.
The Swedish striker completed the full 90 minutes during his country’s 2-1 victory over Romania on Friday but has since withdrawn and will miss Sweden’s next three Nations League fixtures.
Isak will return to Liverpool, where he is expected to undergo further assessment by the club’s medical team.
The simultaneous fitness concerns surrounding Gakpo and Isak come at an important point in Liverpool’s campaign.
The Reds are scheduled to return to action on October 11 when Manchester City travel to Anfield, meaning Arne Slot’s medical staff will have time to assess both players before that crucial Premier League fixture.
For Gakpo, the immediate priority will be determining whether the ankle problem is minor enough for him to resume training quickly or whether it requires a longer recovery period.
Liverpool will hope the decision to send him back from international duty allows the forward to receive the necessary treatment and rehabilitation ahead of the club’s return to domestic football.
With Isak also back on Merseyside for assessment, Liverpool now have two key attackers whose fitness will be under scrutiny before the visit of Manchester City.
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