Robben injury blow for Dutch ahead of Italy clash
Sunday, 08 Jun 2008 14:46
Netherlands will be without Robben for the match against Italy
The Netherlands have been dealt another blow ahead of their Euro 2008 clash with world champions Italy after Arjen Robben injured his groin in training.
Holland are already without Ryan Babel, leaving them short of players on the left wing.
Arsenal's Robin van Persie could fill-in that role, but he is currently getting back to full fitness himself following a thigh injury and manager Marco van Basten is reluctant to risk him at this stage.
Robben pulled up during training for the Group C match which is due to take place on Monday. However, van Basten hopes the Real Madrid player will be able to face France on June 13th.
He said: "It's very disappointing for Arjen and a pity for the team as we have lost another left winger in Ryan Babel.
"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."
Van Persie could prove to be a vital player for van Basten, with the Dutch coach preferring to play with one lone striker and using wide men to support him.
But with van Persie's lack of match van Basten concedes he will have to wait until later in the tournament to make an appearance.
"His [van Persie] condition is improving from day to day, but it is logical that there is still some improvement to come," said van Basten.
"He has a lot of catching up to do and the Italy match will be too early."
Italy have injury worries themselves and will without captain Fabio Cannavaro, while there are also concerns over defender Christian Panucci.