Lazio midfielder Taylor top candidate to replace Spurs star Simons in Netherlands World Cup squad

Kenneth Taylor has emerged as a leading candidate to replace Xavi Simons in the Netherlands squad for the upcoming World Cup.

Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News & Content – Free Trial – Click Here

Simons, currently at Tottenham Hotspur, is expected to miss the tournament after suffering a serious knee injury, forcing Dutch coach Ronald Koeman to consider alternatives.

Taylor, who joined Lazio in January, is reportedly among the most credible options, as per TuttoMercatoWeb .

The midfielder has adapted well to Serie A and offers versatility between midfield and attacking roles, making him a strong fit to fill the gap left by Simons.

BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 22: Kenneth Taylor of SS Lazio celebrates a opening goal during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and SS Lazio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

Taylor faces competition from Til, Lang & Summerville for Netherlands spot

Several players are already assured of their place in the squad, including Ryan Gravenberch , Frenkie de Jong and Cody Gakpo , leaving limited spots available for those on the fringes.

Taylor faces competition from a number of other attacking and midfield options. Names under consideration include Justin Kluivert , Crysencio Summerville, Guus Til , Noa Lang and Georginio Wijnaldum .

A call-up for Taylor would mark a return to the national team after more than a year, with his last appearance coming in March 2025 in a Nations League fixture against Spain .

With Simons’ absence leaving a significant gap, Taylor’s performances in Italy could prove decisive in securing him a place on the plane.