Liverpool star dropped from international matchday squad amid recent struggles

Liverpool star dropped from international matchday squad amid recent struggles Jeremie Frimpong dropped from Netherlands squad in latest Liverpool setback Jeremie Frimpong has suffered another setback during a difficult spell, with the Liverpool defender left out of the Netherlands’ final matchday squad for their latest international fixture. Frimpong was initially included in the Netherlands squad for the current international break, with Xavi calling up 24 players for the latest round of fixtures. However, only 23 players could be named in the final squad submitted to UEFA, leaving one player facing the disappointment of missing out. On this occasion, that player was Frimpong. Frimpong facing battle for Liverpool place For Frimpong, the decision comes at an awkward moment. His opportunities at Liverpool have been limited in recent weeks, with Andoni Iraola preferring Ronald Araujo at right-back. That has left the Netherlands international competing for minutes at club level, rather than enjoying the regular run of matches that can help a player build rhythm and confidence. Photo: IMAGO There is no suggestion that Frimpong has been discarded from the Netherlands set-up. His omission from this particular 23-man squad needs to be viewed in the context of the numbers involved, while further international fixtures against Greece and Serbia could still provide an opportunity to make an impression. For now, though, it represents another unwanted development for a player who needs regular football. Netherlands decision adds to frustration International football can offer a useful escape when club opportunities are scarce. For Frimpong, this break has instead brought another reminder of the competition for places. His position is hardly unique within the Liverpool squad either. Rio Ngumoha and Victor Munoz were also omitted from their respective final international squads despite being involved during the break. Neither player was ruled out through injury, meaning both watched from the sidelines as the World Cup winners secured a 3-2 victory at Wembley. Frimpong will therefore be hoping the remaining Netherlands fixtures give him an opportunity to change the picture before the international window closes. Liverpool awaiting return to club action Liverpool will also be monitoring Alexander Isak after the striker returned to Merseyside with a minor injury sustained while on Sweden duty. Isak scored in Sweden’s latest fixture before being ruled out of their remaining matches, with Liverpool’s medical staff expected to assess him at the AXA Training Centre. For Frimpong, the immediate objective is simpler. He needs to return to Liverpool ready to compete for his place and make the case for more minutes. With Liverpool preparing to resume their season against Manchester City on October 11, there is plenty of football still to come. The Netherlands decision may be frustrating for Frimpong, but his response at club level will ultimately carry greater weight.