"He has a great talent, quality and experience," gushed Rijkaard. "It is no coincidence that when he gets to touchline he always gives a pass and never tries to score alone.

"If he's still in good condition, he can still give a lot. I hope and believe that he can give even more. Not only at the individual level, but his presence is a great example for the other players. He is generous, has humility, makes jokes, brings common sense and a sense of team work.

"He can play on the left, but there are more possibilities and he can work just as well in different parts of the field."