Strongest possible starting XI for the Netherlands | UEFA Euro 2020

Centre-back- Matthijs de Ligt (Juventus)

Netherlands v Estonia - UEFA Euro 2020 Qualifier

The absence of Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk from the Netherlands squad means that the pressure on young Matthijs de Ligt will increase significantly.

De Ligt joined Juventus after an excellent 2018/19 Ajax season for a fee of £77 million. Juventus endured a poor season this time around, but de Ligt was one of the better performers for the Old Lady. A physically gifted, ball-playing centre-back, the 21-year old is excellent aerially.

The Netherlands international will be an important player at Euro 2020 for the Netherlands. His ability on the ball could prove to be essential.

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Centre-back- Stefan de Vrij (Inter Milan)

Netherlands v Luxembourg - FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier

One of the most underrated centre-backs in the world, Stefan de Vrij was a crucial cog of the Inter Milan side which won Serie A this season and will be in contention for a starting spot at Euro 2020.

The 29-year-old, who joined Inter Milan on a free transfer after his contract with Lazio expired, was a consistent presence as Antonio Conte's side comfortably won the league. De Vrij made 32 league appearances for Inter Milan, scoring one goal.

While his passing might not be as good as Matthijs de Ligt or Daley Blind, de Vrij is an intelligent centre-back who is also strong defensively. The former Feyenoord man is well-versed with a three-at-the-back system and his experience will be crucial for manager Frank de Boer at Euro 2020.

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Centre-back- Daley Blind (Ajax)

Netherlands v Latvia - FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar Qualifier

Daley Blind, like Stefan de Vrij, is one of the most underrated footballers in Europe, and it is good news for the Netherlands that he has recovered from his injury just before Euro 2020.

A good reader of the game who is excellent on the ball, Blind's calmness and composure will be key for the Dutch, especially with van Dijk's absence. Also, the 31-year-old is left-footed, which is certainly a useful attribute to have.

Blind, who made 23 league appearances for Ajax this season, is a highly versatile footballer. Capable of playing as a centre-back, left-back and in defensive midfield, the former Manchester United man will likely start for the Netherlands at Euro 2020.

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Other options: Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Joel Veltman (Brighton & Hove Albion), Jurrien Timber (Ajax)

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