Arsenal ace Robin van Persie has all but ended the international hopes of Real Madrid's Dutchman Ruud van Nistelrooy.

The Mail on Sunday says Holland coach Bert van Marwijk is now ready to replicate Arsene Wenger's decision to play Van Persie down the middle for Holland in matches against Italy and Paraguay next week.

"I've spoken to Robin about it and it's all about what's best for the team," said Van Marwijk.

"There's a big chance that Robin is going to play as a striker for Holland from now on, as he's doing a fantastic job for Arsenal and we are not blind to this in Holland."

Ironically, Van Marwijk was the coach at Feyenoord who repeatedly clashed with Van Persie, branding him a troublemaker before selling him to Arsenal for £2.5m.