The prolific striker was injured when Holland hosted the Euro 2000 finals and was then devastated when the Dutch failed to qualify for the World Cup two years later.

At the age of 27 he is now nearing his best, having scored more than 100 goals in under three seasons at Manchester United.

If it wasn't for Thierry Henry he would probably be described by some as the best striker in the world. This is his chance to take the title for himself.