Sat Jun 21 13:58:05 2008

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Boulahrouz declares himself fit for quarterfinals

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Basel, Switzerland (Sports Network) - Netherlands coach Marco van Basten has paid tribute to defender Khalid Boulahrouz, who has declared himself ready to feature in the Euro 2008 quarterfinal with Russia.

The 26-year-old left the Dutch training camp in Lausanne on Wednesday to be at the bedside of his hospitalized wife, who suffered complications during pregnancy which led to the death of their prematurely-born daughter.

However, Boulahrouz has told van Basten that he is mentally ready for action and has earned high praise from his national team boss.

"It was a very special moment for the team," van Basten said. "We knew there was a player who had a very sad experience in a private way.

"There are a few players who are very close to him and the whole team was really concerned."

(Courtesy of sportbox.tv)