De Zeeuw dreaming of Dutch recall

Spartak Moscow midfielder Demy de Zeeuw says that he misses playing for the Netherlands national team.

The 29-year-old has been out of the plans of the Dutch national side since joining Spartak from Ajax last year.

De Zeeuw says that his fitness problems over the years have also played a role in his omission from the national team’s set-up, but remains hopeful about a return in the future.

“My absence has several reasons,” De Zeeuw told Goal.com. “Several times, I missed matches because of injuries and I have not been playing regularly in Russia.

“When you are in a situation like mine, you are out of the picture, and coach Bert van Marwijk does not follow the Russian league closely.

“I do not have any contact with him, but I am okay with that.

“It will be really hard to come back to the Oranje. But on the other hand, it could happen soon. Look at Wilfred Bouma, who is back in again. But I am not expecting anything.”

Questioned about the favourites for Euro 2012, De Zeeuw thinks that there are several sides who can challenge Netherlands for the title.

“Of course Spain and Germany are favourites, but also Portugal and France,” De Zeeuw said.

“I really think France can go far: they have got Karim Benzema, Franck Ribery and Samir Nasri, all world-class players.

“Nobody is talking about them because of their disappointing World Cup, but they are a very strong side who have a shot at the title.”

Netherlands begin their Euro 2012 campaign against Denmark before meeting Germany and Portugal.