Sneijder named as Netherlands captain for Belgium friendly

Aug 14, 2012 10:25:00 PM

The Inter playmaker recently admitted that he would be happy to wear the armband for his country and now the 28-year-old will lead Oranje out on Wednesday

Wesley Sneijder will captain the Netherlands for the first time on Wednesday night, after manager Louis Van Gaal named his starting XI ahead of the friendly against Belgium.

The former Bayern Munich coach was appointed as national team boss in the wake of Bert van Marwijk's disastrous Euro 2012 campaign, which saw them fail to progress beyond the group stage of the competition.

Former skipper Mark van Bommel announced his international retirement at the end of the tournament, and the Inter playmaker admitted that he would be honoured to take over the armband.

Elsewhere, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, who has often played second fiddle to Robin Van Persie, under Van Marwijk, has been named ahead of the Arsenal man up front.

Meanwhile, Ajax youngster Ricardo van Rhinjn has been handed a start at right-back, with Jetro Willems continuing on the left-hand side of defence, despite criticism of his Euro 2012 performances.

John Heitinga and Joris Mathijsen have kept their slots at the heart of defence and Rafael van der Vaart retains his place as he prepares to make his 100th appearance for his 100th international appearance.

Full line-up: Stekelenburg; Van Rhijn, Heitinga, Mathijsen, Willems; De Jong; Sneijder, Van der Vaart; Narsingh, Huntelaar, Robben

Netherlands and Belgium kick off at 20:45CET on Wednesday.

Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25
Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200
Sign up to Paddy Power for £250 in free bets
Sign up today with Coral and get a £50 FREE bet - no strings attached!
Sign up today with BetVictor and get a £25 FREE BET!