Edwin - Comeback a one-off

Holland goalkeeper only returning for two games

By James Dall   Last updated: 8th October 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Edwin - Comeback a one-off

Van der Sar: Answered call

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Holland goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has stressed that his decision to come out of international retirement is a 'one-off'.

The Manchester United player had called an end to representing his nation following their quarter-final exit at Euro 2008.

However, Van der Sar answered manager Bert van Marwijk's call amid a shot-stopper injury crisis, with first-choice Maarten Stekelenburg and back-up Henk Timmer unavailable.

The 37-year-old, who has 128 caps to his name, is now poised to represent Oranje in their back-to-back World Cup qualifiers against Iceland and Norway.

He said on Uefa.com: "It was hard to say no. I have been part of this team for a long time. I have always had a sense of responsibility.

"I do not only think about my own interest, but always have an eye on the team's interest. I was surprised. I had not expected to be back, though I did not want to desert the team.

"But that does not mean I will do the same again next time. Bert said it would be a one-off. Two matches, and that's it. After Norway it really is over."