Boulahrouz returns to Holland squad after death of daughter
Thursday, 19 Jun 2008 19:17
Khalid Boulahrouz has had to deal with personal heartache
Netherlands defender Khalid Boulahrouz has returned to the squad after the death of his prematurely-born daughter Anissa.
Boulahrouz went to hospital yesterday after his wife Sabia was taken in suffering from pregnancy complications. The Dutch FA confirmed the news that the baby had died.
The former
Chelsea star decided to return to the squad and trained with the rest of the Dutch players today and is expected to play in the quarter-final against Russia on Saturday.
"He told me, 'I am a football player and I am available on Saturday'," said Holland coach Marco van Basten.
"Khalid indicated early on Thursday that he had given the events a special place. He thanked the players and staff and wants to move on.
"Khalid is experiencing a dreadful time but he reacted like an adult and wanted the squad to focus on the quarter-final with Russia."
Van Basten added that Boulahrouz is free to leave the squad and be with his family whenever he feels he needs to.
Boulahrouz had a difficult spell at Stamford Bridge and has experienced similar problems since his move to Sevilla. But he has been an absolute revelation at Euro 2008, playing in every game for his country as they topped group C.