Netherlands coach Danny Blind admits Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman is mentally struggling with his knee injury.

Strootman has battled with injury for the past 18 months.

“I've called Kevin several times," Blind revealed, speaking to De Telegraaf.

“Most recently the day before yesterday. He remains a great option for the Oranje [Dutch national team], he has both physicality and footballing ability.

“A lot of players in his position have only one of those qualities.

“That said, we shouldn't make too much of a drama out of the fact he's not available. He doesn't have the flu, he has a serious injury.

“It hurts me to see a lad struggling with injury for 17 months at the height of his football career.

“For me, not being able to use him is annoying, but for him it's much worse, it's a personal drama. We need him, but we're not going to rush his recovery."