Netherlands boss De Boer will not put pressure on Van Dijk to return for Euro 2020

Netherlands boss Frank de Boer accepts it is unlikely Virgil van Dijk will return to action before next season and will not put pressure on the defender to be fit in time for Euro 2020.

Liverpool centre-back Van Dijk has been sidelined since rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament in October s Merseyside derby against Everton.

The 29-year-old returned to individual training last month, but Klopp reiterated last week he does not expect him to play any part at this year s rescheduled European Championship finals.

But De Boer, who was appointed as Ronald Koeman s successor in September, says the final decision will be made by the player himself closer to the tournament.

Anything he can contribute to Liverpool and possibly us would be a bonus, De Boer said …