Dutch to wait on Van Persie

Forward given time to prove his fitness

Last updated: 22nd May 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Dutch to wait on Van Persie

Van Persie: Getting better

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Marco van Basten says he will not take any risks with Robin van Persie's fitness ahead of Holland's opening game of Euro 2008.

Van Persie missed Arsenal's final two matches of the Premier League season after enduring a campaign ruined by injury.

He is battling to be fit for the upcoming European Championship, but has been training separately from his Holland team-mates.

The forward is not expected to feature in Saturday's friendly with Ukraine, but is due to link up with the main group for training next week.

But, even if Van Persie is not fit for his country's opening game against Italy on June 9th, Dutch coach Van Basten may still include him in his squad for the tournament.

Very special player

"In principle, I believe any player who wants to be part of the Euro squad has to be able to play in the first match, but Robin is a very special player," said Van Basten at the Dutch training camp.

"We will be taking him with us even if he is a doubt for the Italy game. We do not want to take risks with Van Persie.

"Maybe he has returned too soon from injuries in the past. That is why we have chosen to have him train alone.

"We just have to wait and see when he is totally fit again. But obviously I hope that will be as soon as possible.

"He is getting better and better, he is now working to get into top shape. I think next week he will join the (main) group."