Timothy Fosu-Mensah prioritised being fit for Manchester United’s pre-season over making his debut for the Dutch national team.
- By Michael Bell
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The young defender was named in Danny Blind’s provisional squad for the friendlies with the Republic of Ireland, Poland and Austria, but pulled out after suffering from a minor groin issue.
Speaking to Voetbal International, Fosu-Mensah stated his time for Netherlands will come eventually, but he pulled out in order to be fit for Manchester United’s pre-season.
He said, “A groin problem was causing me too much problems.
“I told the national team coach about it and also informed the doctor. I need to rest. If I do too much now, I will be sidelined during pre-season. We also have a trip to China coming up with Manchester United. I have to be fit for that. It’s a long journey and we will be training hard.”
“I will meet with my physio in two weeks’ time and we will do everything to make sure I will be ready for the first training of the new season.”
“The national team coach has ensured me that he is keeping a close eye on me. I am still only 18. My time will come. I am focused on United now. I was happy with the call-up for Netherlands and the coach will keep following me.”
Fosu-Mensah then admitted that switching allegiances to Ghana could still happen, “If Ghana is still an option? You never know.”
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