Robben ruled out of Dutch opener

June 07, 2008 21:13 IST

Dutch winger Arjen Robben will miss Netherlands' opening Euro 2008 Group C match with Italy on Monday after picking up a groin injury during Saturday's training, the Dutch FA (KNVB) said.

Euro schedule | Schedule

"First, it is an enormous disappointment for Arjen (Robben) but also a big loss for the team especially because we lost Ryan Babel last week for the same position in the team," coach Marco van Basten was quoted in a statement.

"Together with the medical staff, Arjen now will try to recover and we hope that he can still be valuable in the short term for the team."

It is the latest blow in an injury-plagued season for Robben with his club, Real Madrid.

The Dutch also face France and Romania in the group.

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