Van Basten shock at Seedorf
14 May 2008 - 07:23:16
Netherlands coach Marco van Basten has revealed his surprise after AC Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf ruled himself out of Euro 2008.
The 32-year-old midfielder made himself unavailable for selection for this summer's tournament, but has refused to confirm his retirement from international football.
"I was surprised by his announcement," admitted van Basten, who will step down at the end of the tournament to take the reins at former club Ajax.
"I wasn't expecting this. I have said before that I have a lot of respect for Clarence, both as a person and as a footballer, but his decision was final."
Seedoorf, who has won 87 international caps for the Netherlands added: "It is a decision that comes after serious consideration and months of reflection.
"Since my return to the national team, the right conditions have not been created to let me perform at my best and to effectively excel as the team member I always strive to be.
"I still hope that in the future I can once again proudly wear the orange jersey, especially as the Dutch team prepares for what I hope will be a very successful campaign for the World Cup 2010 in South Africa."