Everton defender Johnny Heitinga feels Holland can give the European Championships a big shake next year.

They were beaten finalists at the 2010 World Cup and are battling their rivals from that tournament, Spain, for the FIFA number one spot.

Everton enforcer Heitinga outlined the reasons why he thinks 2012 could be his nation's time for glory.

"Our team spirit is excellent," he declared.

"And almost all of my teammates are a good age - between 26 and 30-years-old - and we have experience and have played together a long time.

"Also this is not out first tournament together so our spirit is very strong.

"We are playing very well and at a good level but there is still almost a year to go to the Euros so hopefully we can still improve and get even better by the time the tournament arrives."