Football | European Championships

Dirk Kuyt © Action Images

Kuyt injured, misses Dutch qualifier



Netherlands striker Dirk Kuyt will be out for several weeks after injuring his shoulder when he fell awkwardly while attempting a bicycle kick in training, coach Bert van Marwijk said on Monday.

"He tries that manoeuvre a lot but this time it went wrong," Van Marwijk told a news conference ahead of Tuesday's Euro 2012 qualifier against Group E rivals Finland in Rotterdam.

"He pulled some ligaments in his shoulder and maybe some are torn."

The Liverpool player's injury means Van Marwijk will be without the forward line he fielded in the World Cup final defeat by Spain in July.

Bayern Munich winger Arjen Robben is out of the Finland game with a hamstring injury while Arsenal striker Robin van Persie is sidelined by an ankle problem.

"Now the strikers are out, the others can show what they can do," said the coach.

The Dutch are also without defender Khalid Boulahrouz because of a groin injury but John Heitinga is ready to return after suspension.

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