Virgil van Dijk sees positive side of red card for Netherlands as Liverpool star happy to 'get some rest' ahead of intense schedule for Arne Slot's team

Ronald Koeman's Netherlands suffered a disappointing setback in their race to finish atop their Nations League group as they drew 1-1 against Hungary at the Puskas Arena Park. Van Dijk was sent off in the 79th minute of the game after receiving his second yellow of the night and is now set to miss the crunch clash against Germany.

Van Dijk is now set to return to Merseyside as he looks forward to some extended rest ahead of a tough set of fixtures coming up. The Liverpool star has been in top form for Arne Slot's side amid a number of injury issues in the squad including goalkeeper Alisson, who is set to miss up to two months due to a hamstring tear. The Dutch captain has opened up on the positive side of being shown the red card against Hungary.

Speaking to the media, Van Dijk said: "I wanted to stay with the team to give the lads my support, but now I have decided it is better to go home. A lot has been said about the massive pile of matches we are playing in this period and all the travelling. This is a good moment to get some rest.

"With all the matches we have coming, I fully understand that the club thinks it is a good moment to get some rest."

The Liverpool captain will now get some time off from playing action and he will return to action when the Reds take on Chelsea on October 20 at Anfield.