Dirk: I'm not like 'Fab Four'

Dirk Kuyt insists he does not need to be like the so-called 'Fab Four' to be a key member of Holland's attack.

Dutch boss Bert van Marwijk selected Kuyt for 19 consecutive games during the qualification period despite the presence of Robin van Persie, Rafael Van der Vaart, Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben.

And the 29-year-old is almost certain to play his 65^th game of the season when Holland tackle Japan on Saturday lunchtime following his goal in the 2-0 victory over Denmark.

"It doesn't bother me what people in the street say about me starting," Kuyt said.

"It's not the same with the manager or my teammates. I do get recognition from them, but I'm basically a different player than van Persie, van der Vaart, Sneijder and Robben.

"That's probably also my strength. In a good team, players need to compensate each other. I can be important in one game and another player can be in the next. That's how we can actually win a prize - by operating as a team."

When van Persie was asked by journalists prior to the World Cup which players he'd love to play alongside for his country, Kuyt's name was not mentioned - but the Liverpool man isn't losing any sleep.

"You know how it goes. Robin gets a question and says it must be great to play with all the highly skilled players," he said.

"And I agree with Robin. I'd like to be part of that team too. And you know, the team isn't just 11 players. Sometimes the subs are the ones making the difference. They can force the issue when the opponent is already a bit groggy.

"Rafael was the man against Ghana, Robben against Hungary and now Elia against Denmark. It's fantastic to have a whole group with all these qualities.

"As I said, I feel very much supported within the group and I know a lot of fans support me. But there is always that one person on the internet trying to axe me down."

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