Van Basten's Ruud regret

Marco van Basten concedes he was wrong to publicly criticise Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Marco van Basten has conceded he was wrong to publicly question Ruud van Nistelrooy's current worth to the Holland side.

The Oranje coach admitted earlier in the week that his choice of main striker was 'a point of discussion'.

Van Basten's comments alluded to a discontent with van Nistelrooy's performances for Holland in the first round of the World Cup.

The Manchester United hit-man could be replaced for his country's second round game with Portugal on Sunday by Dirk Kuyt.

Though van Basten has not confirmed his team, he acknowledged that he made a mistake in criticising van Nistelrooy and has now made his peace with the centre forward.

"Regret is a big word, but what I did was not correct to the player," said van Basten.

"I spoke with Ruud on Thursday night after dinner and explained what I meant and what I expected from him.

"I put my side and Ruud put his. We spoke about football and the expectations I have of him.

"He agreed with what I said and said he would do everything he could to make sure he did well in future games.

"He was not pleased with it and felt sorry, but that is the way top sport works."

Van Basten is looking for his team to offer a greater attacking punch against Portugal, but is aware of the danger of being too positive.

He added: "We have reviewed our campaign in the Group of Death with satisfaction, although now we need something more.

"We've a solid team and now we need some offensive power, but that has to come from the whole team.

"Portugal always have been a good defensive team playing well-organised football.

"If we follow our offensive nature there is a chance we could end up with empty hands."