Who are the key men for the Netherlands versus England?
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The Netherlands will be England’s first opponents of 2018 when they host the Three Lions in Amsterdam on Friday night.
The Dutch won’t be joining Gareth Southgate’s men in Russia, having failed to qualify for a second successive major finals.
The Arjen Robben days are over, and Ronald Koeman is the new manager.
They still boast plenty of quality however, and Ladbrokes News have identified their key men for the clash with England…
Virgil van Dijk
England will be plenty familiar with Liverpool centre-half Virgil van Dijk. But that doesn’t mean it will be easy to get the better of the 26-year-old.
Van Dijk is a commanding presence at 6ft 4in, and should win the aerial battles with ease.
He’s no slouch on the ground though, and it will take plenty of skill from Jamie Vardy, Marcus Rashford or Raheem Sterling to get past him.
Kevin Strootman
As the Dutch enter a new era, Kevin Strootman takes on even more importance to the national side.
The Roma ace keeps his side ticking along in the middle of the park.
He’ll be out to shut down England’s creative outlets (most likely Jack Wilshere) while also ensuring someone keeps a track of Raheem Sterling.
Memphis Depay
Memphis Depay will be a man to watch. The Lyon winger has rediscovered his vibe following a nightmare spell at Manchester United.
The 24-year-old has a good international record too, netting eight times from 34 caps and should play a more integral role from here in the post-Robben world.
Depay can ping one in from anywhere and has a handy record of assists too.
Justin Kluivert
The Dutch have a history of sensational forwards. From Marco van Basten and Dennis Berkamp to Robin van Persie and Ruud van Nistelrooy.
And the new kid on the block is Justin Kluivert, son of former Barcelona ace Patrick.
Though only 18-years-old, the Ajax star has shown a goalscoring gift which belies his years.
More of a winger than an out-and-out striker like his Dad, Kluivert Jr has yet to make his senior international debut.
But that could come against the Three Lions, and the start of a sensational career with the national side beckons.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
