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

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

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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.