Van Persie set to miss opener for Dutch against Azzurri
Robin Van Persie has been beseiged by injury problems over the last year
Also In The News
|
Kevin Pietersen admitted his century against New Zealand today was extra special as he thrived on scoring his runs under so much pressure. |  |
Friday, 06, Jun 2008 10:28
Arsenal striker Robin Van Persie is set to miss Holland's clash with Italy in their Euro 2008 opener.
Holland coach Marco Van Basten has ruled the 24-year-old out of the game on Monday in group C, dubbed the group of death.
Van Persie, who last played in the Gunners' 6-2 win over Derby County on April 28th, has been struggling with a thigh injury.
Van Basten said he is yet to be convinced about the striker's fitness.
"His condition is improving from day to day, but it is logical that there is still some improvement to come," Van Basten said.
"He has a lot of catching up to do and the Italy match will be too early."
"Physically he is okay now, but he needs to be back to his old self as soon as possible.
"He can do this quickly because he wasn't out for a very long time."
But Van Persie has not given up hope, insisting: "I understand that I lack match practice but I still hope I can start against Italy."
Van Persie is expected to return for the Dutch for the crunch game against World Cup runners-up France on June 13th in Berne.
Wesley Sneijder is expected to recover from a minor knock that forced him to train alone during yesterday's session in Lausanne.