Netherlands head coach Xavi Hernandez is considering using Virgil van Dijk on the right side of central defence against Greece, he revealed at the press conference ahead of the Nations League clash.
Jan Paul van Hecke started on the right side of central defence in the Netherlands' first two matches under Xavi. However, the Tottenham Hotspur defender has suffered a foot injury.
"Someone stood on his foot in the match against Serbia. He thought he could just train, but he was in a lot of pain," Xavi said. Van Hecke has since returned to England.
Mike Verweij asked Xavi whether he had also considered moving Van Dijk to the right, which would allow the left-footed Jorrel Hato or Micky van de Ven to play on the left, although Xavi could also simply bring Jurriën Timber into Van Hecke's place.
"It is not Virgil's favourite position, but if we need him there, the team comes first/ He can help the team well. That is possible," Xavi replied to Verweij's question.
Although Van Dijk is naturally right-footed, he always plays on the left side of central defence. He does that for both Liverpool and the Netherlands.