Netherlands Call Up Sunderland's Geertruida

Geertruida replaces Timber in dutch squad

Netherlands squad gets Geertruida boost ahead of Norway and Ecuador games. Sunderland defender Geertruida called up after Timber's groin injury for Netherlands friendlies.

Sunderland defender Lutsharel Geertruida joins Netherlands squad...

Sunderland defender Lutsharel Geertruida has been called up to replace Arsenal's Jurrien Timber in the Netherlands squad for their upcoming friendlies. Timber is out due to a groin injury he picked up during Arsenal's 2-1 win over Everton on March 14.

Timber's injury also forced him to miss Sunday's League Cup final against Manchester City, which Arsenal lost 2-0. Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has brought in Geertruida as a replacement, and the squad will face Norway on March 27 and Ecuador on March 31.

Lutsharel Geertruida, a seasoned 19-time international, brings valuable experience to the Netherlands squad. He featured in both of their last World Cup qualifiers in November, playing 74 minutes against Poland and 27 minutes against Lithuania.

With his recent form and experience, Geertruida looks like a solid addition to the Netherlands team. 

Sunderland defender Lutsharel Geertruida was allegedly subjected to discriminatory abuse during Sunday's Tyne-Wear Derby against Newcastle United, causing a temporary stoppage in play. Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris reported that Geertruida is okay, but emphasized the importance of reporting and managing the situation properly.

ORANJE, MARCH 2026 🇳🇱

Welcome to the squad, Kees Smit! 🦁#NothingLikeOranje #NEDNOR #NEDECU pic.twitter.com/EmoCJeLnvb

— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) March 20, 2026

The incident occurred early in the second half, and referee Anthony Taylor paused the game to address the issue. The Premier League has launched an investigation into the matter, and Newcastle United has vowed to support the authorities in identifying and holding accountable those responsible 

“He (Geertruida) looks OK. It is unacceptable, and important to report and manage the situation properly. He looks OK, but we ⁠need to support ⁠him,” he said.

The Netherlands have got a couple of friendlies lined up - they'll face Norway in Amsterdam on March 27th, followed by Ecuador in Eindhoven on March 31st. Big games ahead for the Dutch.