Van Nistelrooij gets the nod

Advocaat unimpressed
"I believe Van Nistelrooij is the best choice for the team. He has proved in the past that he can score at the top level. None of the four strikers really impressed me during the training sessions and the friendly matches we played, but I believe Ruud is a real match player," Advocaat said.

Formation change
Advocaat opted to switch from a 4-4-2 system on Wednesday after a discussion with four senior players. The Netherlands lost two friendlies in eight days to Belgium and the Republic of Ireland, both 1-0, playing a diamond midfield formation.

Wingers recover
"We tried to play with a diamond in midfield because my wingers (Arjen Robben, Marc Overmars and Andy van der Meyde) joined the squad in bad shape. But Andy has improved his form a lot since we came together," Advocaat added.

Makaay angry
Advocaat's decision has angered striker Roy Makaay, who has voiced his displeasure at not being picked, but captain Phillip Cocu backed his coach. "Yesterday during the training session we played a match and [the formation] felt so much more comfortable. It is something that suits us so naturally that we don't need any practice matches," Cocu said.

Bad combination
"It is hard to understand why the combination between Kluivert and Van Nistelrooij didn't work out. I think it bothers them too and they can't explain why it just won't work," he added.

Injury worry
The Netherlands have one injury doubt as attacking midfield player Rafael van der Vaart skipped the second training session on Wednesday because of injury and will struggle to keep his place.

Seedorf boost
However, there was some good news as midfield player Clarence Seedorf returned to training ahead of schedule on Thursday. The AC Milan player damaged a hamstring on Saturday and it was initially thought he would have to rest for up to five days but, together with defender Michael Reiziger who has a minor muscle problem, he trained apart from the rest of the squad.

Quiet optimism
"Seedorf is without pain now but let's not jump to conclusions," Advocaat said. "We have to be careful. It is by no means clear clear if he will be able to play against Germany."