Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee has received a late call-up to the Netherlands national team following Brian Brobbey's injury. The Sunderland striker suffered a hamstring injury during the Netherlands' 1-1 draw with Germany in the Nations League on Thursday night.
Injury blow for Brobbey and Havertz
Brobbey was not the only casualty from the match, as German forward Kai Havertz also came off hurt, in what could prove to be a major blow for Arsenal. It is hugely concerning news for both Oranje and Sunderland supporters as Brobbey is a key player for country and club, notably scoring a hat-trick against Manchester City last Sunday.
New Dutch manager Xavi was unable to give much of an update after the game, but he did confirm the 24-year-old would have to leave the camp early and that a replacement would be called up to the squad.
Zirkzee's surprise return
That replacement has turned out to be Zirkzee, who last played for his country nearly two years ago as a result of his struggling form for United. A £36.5million signing from Bologna, the forward has recorded just nine goals and four assists in 79 games for the Red Devils. His four appearances this season have all been late cameos off the bench, making his international call-up somewhat of a surprise.
The 25-year-old, who has six caps and one goal for his country, was expected to leave Old Trafford last summer but stayed put despite interest from Juventus and Everton.
Upcoming fixtures
Over the extended international break, the Netherlands face away games against Serbia and Greece before a home clash against Serbia. United return to action on October 10 when they face win-less Tottenham. On the same day, Sunderland, with or without Brobbey, are back in action too as they host in-form Brighton at the Stadium of Light.
