 Van Nistelrooy is hoping to get back into the team on Wednesday |
Holland coach Marco van Basten has told Ruud van Nistelrooy he will be in his World Cup squad regardless of the situation at Manchester United. The 29-year-old striker has been on the bench for United's last five games, although he has been tipped for a recall against West Ham on Wednesday.
Van Basten told Dutch magazine Voetbal: "I made clear to him that he should not worry about his place.
"I think he'll get more playing time. If not, that's also no problem."
United go into the match against West Ham looking for a seventh consecutive Premiership win but manager Sir Alex Ferguson has hinted he may make changes to his team.
And in his programme noted for Wednesday's game, he added: "It has not been easy for Ruud sitting on the bench.
"However, it has been impossible to leave Louis Saha out since the Carling Cup final, given his tremendous scoring form.
"Playing three strikers is possible in some games - but not always because it can leave the wrong balance.
"The one thing that is certain is that all three will play their part and help us maintain the momentum."
Van Nistelrooy is the joint leading scorer in the Premiership this season with 19 goals.
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
Match of the Day - Post-match interviews 