SWISS READY FOR NETHERLANDS

Switzerland coach Ottmar Hitzfeld insists that Switzerland are ready for the challenge of the Netherlands, and that even without a number of key players the Swiss can more than match their neighbours.

Switzerland are due to play against the Netherlands tonight, in the first of two international friendlies. Whilst the coach may be confident, the team will be without both Reto Ziegler (twisted knee) and Valon Behrami. Both would have added some muscle to the Swiss midfield, and the worry is that the Dutch will now be able to dominate with Nigel De Jong ready to capitalise in the centre of the park.

Switzerland will also be missing their experienced centre-back Philippe Senderos - the defender has only just returned from injury for Fulham, but this set of internationals has come a few weeks too soon for him to be involved.

The Dutch are obviously the odds on favourites to win the tie, but Hitzfeld believes it will be competitive. "Yes, we are missing some big players" said the former Bayern Munich coach "but so are Netherlands. Robben is out, Babel is out. I think we have a great chance, especially if we can create the right structure at the back."

"Hopefully it will be a hard-fought game, and a good bit of experience for some of our younger players."