Groin injury for Robben. Say Ciao!

Arjen Robben hit the ball for a distance strike on goal and heard “snap”. He first though it was very very bad news in the groin area, but further research in the hospital pointed out that the groin ligament (?) wasn’t snapped or torn, but overstretched.

The Man of Glass won’t play against Italy, which apparently resulted in euphoria in the Italian city streets, music parades, conga lines and free chianti for everyone.

What the Italians don’t know, is that San Marco has 11 more players at his disposal.

Robben won’t play. Van Basten: “It is sad for Arjen. He did so well, he was our most dangerous attacker in the prep phase. He had a horribel season and appeared to be back in business. This is a setback, but let’s hope he can play later in the tournament.”

Van Basten has several options for the left flank. Sneijder can play there, Van der Vaart can do the job, Van Basten can also bring Afellay on and keep Sneijder centrally. Kuyt could play on the right side, allowing Van der Vaart to move to the left.

My 2cents: Marco will opt for Afellay. The dribbler has all the skills to upset an opponent like Italy. The Italians will keep the field small and tight and Kuyt may well be out of his comfort zone in those tight situations. Afellay resembles Robben most in his play and the PSV midfielder does have depth in his play, which is needed with the more static Sneijder and Van der Vaart on midfield.

Mario Melchiot also is still not 100% fit and won’t play against Italy, is my guess. When the Italians heard this when they were partying, they looked up, frowned and said…”Mario who?”