As he is "expected to play nothing" in this World Cup, Matthijs de Ligt says he has no complaints about not being included in Louis van Gaal's starting lineup for the Netherlands' last three games.

De Ligt entered the game in the 93rd minute of the Netherlands' 3-1 victory over the United States on Saturday.

The 23-year-old made his first appearance for the Oranje in that match after being benched by Van Gaal for the following three matches after starting in their 2-0 victory over Senegal in the World Cup opener.

"It's not so frustrating, honestly," De Ligt told The Athletic. "Every player wants to play but we are a group of 26 players.

"Honestly, I have played more than I expected to play at this World Cup. I expected to play nothing. I'm quite okay. We won together and we are in a quarter-final."

The defender, who has established himself at Bayern Munich since his off-season switch from Juventus, has seen Ajax 21-year-old Jurrien Timber take his place alongside Nathan Ake and Virgil van Dijk in Van Gaal's back three.

"No, it's just the way of playing," De Ligt replied when asked if injury was behind his non-selection. "Maybe the coach doesn't put me in the team and I am okay with that. I expected it.

"So for me it's fine. I know my role and I train hard every day to be important for the team."

In this team we trust. 🧡#NothingLikeOranje #WorldCup pic.twitter.com/kae2V2CRXg

— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) December 3, 2022

Van Dijk supported Cody Gakpo, a 23-year-old teammate from the Netherlands, in taking the next step in his career.

Gakpo, who scored in each of the three victories the Netherlands had during the World Cup group stage, has been linked to both Manchester United and Real Madrid.

"Are Manchester United and Real Madrid the same level at this moment? No disrespect, not at all," Liverpool defender Van Dijk told The Athletic.

"I think he definitely has a next step in him. I definitely feel like it could happen. Whether it happens in the winter or next year, time will tell.

"But he's a great boy. Works hard, is very talented and there's definitely more in him. We are very pleased he's doing so well and long may it continue."

Gakpo would not be drawn on his future after the win over USA, while United defender Tyrell Malacia backed him to step up should an opportunity arise.

"He's good enough for the top, there's no doubt," Malacia said.