Ruud faces the axe
24 Jun 2006 - 13:22:32
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- Ruud faces the axe
Holland coach Marco van Basten has hinted that Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy will have to settle for a place on the substitute's bench for Monday's clash with Portugal.
The Dutch have no injury or suspension problems going into the game but van Basten was unhappy with van Nistelrooy's contribution in the goalless draw with Argentina when the striker was substituted.
"The central position up front is a point of discussion and the chance that Dirk Kuyt will start on Sunday has increased," said the coach.
"We might expect more from van Nistelrooy, he has to play a bigger role in our attack."
Van Basten rested several of his players for the Argentina stalemate but Joris Mathijsen, Giovanni van Bronckhorst, Mark van Bommel and Arjen Robben are all expected to return against Portugal.
They all missed Wednesday's encounter to avoid the risk of a second booking.
Goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar will set a new Dutch record when he starts the game - it will be his 113th appearance for his country, the most by any Holland player.
Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari rested five players who were on a yellow card for the final group game against Mexico.
Marco Ceneira, Tiago, Armando Petit, Simao and Helder Postiga all did well in the 2-1 victory but Nuno Valente, Costinha, Deco, Pauleta and Cristiano Ronaldo are all expected to return for the Dutch game.
Portugal beat Holland 2-1 in the semi-final of Euro 2004 and Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho is hoping for a repeat performance in Nuremberg on Sunday evening.
He said: "We were happy with our performance against Holland in Euro 2004. We know Holland very well, we play a similar game tactically and physically."
Defender Paulo Ferreira added: "We have respect for the Holland but we are thinking to the next round. Are Portugal favourites? No way. The game will be difficult for both teams."