Kuyt: Fit Robben key for Oranje

Dirk Kuyt is desperate for Arjen Robben to overcome his hamstring injury and play a pivotal role for Holland at the World Cup.

The Bayern Munich forward has a small tear in his left hamstring but is hoping intense physiotherapy will help him take part in South Africa.

Liverpool star Kuyt is aware of the impact a fit Robben could have in Group E - which also features Denmark, Japan and Cameroon – if he can shrug off the injury he sustained in Saturday’s 6-1 thrashing of Hungary.

“I really hope he is here as soon as possible,” said Kuyt to www.vi.nl.

“The team is really important. Therefore, we need everyone – certainly a key player like Arjen.”

Despite Robben’s absence, the mood in the Holland camp is positive – something which has not always been the case with previous squads heading into a major tournament.

Kuyt added: “We laugh, but we also work very hard. That’s a good mix.

“If you’re enjoying yourself, you better play football.

“In training and in matches you can see a fresh Dutch team which, I think, can go a long way in this World Cup.”