Brian Brobbey fitness mystery emerges as Sunderland striker makes unexpected Netherlands withdrawal
Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey has withdrawn from international duty, although it remains unclear whether he has suffered a fresh injury setback
Brian Brobbey has withdrawn from the Netherlands squad ahead of the November international break, although it remains unclear whether the Sunderland striker has suffered a fresh set-back or whether the decision is precautionary.
The Dutchman played a crucial role in Sunday's 1-0 victory over Chelsea at the Stadium of Light, winning the penalty converted by Enzo Le Fée and producing an outstanding individual performance against Xabi Alonso's side. However, Brobbey was replaced by Wilson Isidor during the second half, having only recently returned from a hamstring injury sustained during the previous international break.
His substitution was initially believed to have been planned, with Isidor seemingly primed to feature during the closing stages. There was also no confirmation from Sunderland immediately after the match that Brobbey had suffered a fresh injury.
Nevertheless, the Netherlands confirmed on Monday that the 24-year-old had withdrawn from international duty alongside Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk. The Dutch football association stated that neither player was sufficiently fit following the weekend's domestic fixtures, although it did not disclose the nature or severity of their respective problems.
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Both players will miss the upcoming Nations League fixtures against Greece on November 13 and Germany on November 16, with no replacements called into the squad. Crucially for Sunderland, there has been no confirmation that Brobbey has suffered another injury or sustained a separate problem against Chelsea.
It remains likely that his withdrawal is precautionary, particularly given his recent injury history and the demands placed upon him during Sunday's physically intense encounter. Brobbey previously suffered a set-back while representing the Netherlands during the September international break, disrupting his availability for Sunderland and forcing him to work his way back towards full fitness.
Régis Le Bris had already expressed reservations about the striker's international involvement given those previous fitness concerns. His latest withdrawal could therefore provide a valuable opportunity to recuperate during the international break, although Sunderland will undoubtedly want further clarity on his condition.