Kevin Strootman is not fit to play in the Netherlands’ final two World Cup qualifiers, dealing a blow to his country’s chances of reaching next year’s tournament in Russia.
The Dutch football association said on Wednesday that the Roma player has a thigh injury and will not be fit in time for Saturday’s Group A match against Belarus in Borisov Arena or Tuesday’s clash with Sweden in Amsterdam.
The Roma man was taken off injured in the first half of his side’s 2-0 victory over 10-man AC Milan on Sunday.
The association indicated that coach Dick Advocaat will not call up a replacement for Strootman.
Roma said they will monitor Strootman on a “day-by-day basis” after Wednesday’s tests.
A statement on the club’s official website read: “On Wednesday Kevin Strootman underwent medical tests which confirmed the after-effects of bruising in his left thigh, with the area between the quadriceps and the adductor muscles showing signs of significant muscle/fascia haematoma.
“Strootman has already begun a rehabilitation programme and his condition will be monitored on a day-by-day basis.”
Meanwhile, fellow midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini is expected to be out for up to 10 days.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.