Dutch lose injured Robben
07 Jun 2008 - 16:08:11
Arjen Robben has been ruled out of Netherlands' opening Group C encounter with Italy due to a groin injury.
The injury-plagued Real Madrid winger limped out of their final training session in Lausanne on Saturday and has been ruled out by coach Marco van Basten.
Van Basten has already lost Arsenal striker Robin van Persie for their curtain-raiser against the world champions, while fellow forward Ryan Babel was omitted from the 23-man squad at the 11th hour due to injury.
Experienced defender Mario Melchiot is also struggling to be fit to face Italy after picking up a pelvic injury in training.
"First of all it's very disappointing for Arjen," revealed van Basten.
"However, it's also a pity for the team, especially as we lost Ryan Babel, also a left winger, already last week.
"Together with the medical department, Arjen will work very hard on his recovery so we really do hope that he can be of value for the team later in the tournament."