Manchester United striker Robin van Persie had no problem being hooked for Holland's World Cup win over Mexico.
The Dutch skipper is close to coach Louis van Gaal.
"This coach wants to win," said the skipper. "So he makes substitutions. It's simple.
"We played three different formations, so it's a big compliment to the players that they picked up on it so quickly. Let me tell you, the Dutch media thought we would never survive the first round but we have an outstanding spirit and everyone feels we can win it, that it really is possible.
"To be the captain of this squad makes me incredibly proud. It's a huge honour to be here, at this stage, wearing the armband, because we are a real team."
