Arsenal man tipped to replace Spurs star after poor national game
Jurrien Timber was not in the Netherlands squad for their match against Germany, and his absence was noticeable as Jan Paul van Hecke struggled alongside Virgil van Dijk.
Under their former manager, Timber regularly played alongside the Liverpool star, and he has often demonstrated that he can perform well in that role. However, Timber is not fully fit yet, so the coach chose Van Hecke to start alongside the Liverpool captain.
Van Hecke struggles against Germany
The match ended in a 1-1 draw as Jurgen Klopp made his return to football management and faced Xavi Hernandez in the opposite dugout. It was a game involving several familiar and legendary faces, with the Netherlands avoiding defeat thanks to a late Cody Gakpo goal.
Despite the result, Kenneth Perez was unhappy with Van Hecke’s performance at the back. The pundit felt that the Tottenham player struggled to meet expectations and was particularly critical of his ability when dealing with situations that required something unexpected.
Perez also suggested that Timber’s return could improve the Netherlands’ defence. The Arsenal defender remains unavailable for now as he continues to work towards full fitness.
Perez calls for Timber’s return
Perez said via Voetbal Primeur: “Van Hecke was truly incredibly poor in every aspect. On the ball, it is a real struggle.
“If the ball is right in front of him and there is a player in his line of sight, then he manages just about.”
“But if something needs to happen that is a bit unforeseen, he really has no idea.
“He just shoots the ball anywhere. I don’t know how far Timber is? But that will really be an improvement for the Dutch national team.”
The comments underline the contrast Perez sees between Van Hecke’s display and what Timber could offer once he is ready to return. Timber has previously shown his ability to operate alongside Van Dijk, making his eventual return another option for the Netherlands.
For now, the Dutch side must manage without him while he continues his recovery. His fitness will determine when he can return to international duty and potentially resume his partnership with Van Dijk.
