The Netherlands have left striker Robin van Persie out of their squad for this month’s friendlies against Wales and Germany after they failed to qualify for Euro 2016.

The 32-year-old, who captained the Dutch to third place at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, has been overlooked by coach Danny Blind, who is not convinced about his form with Fenerbahce.

“I don’t think he is playing well enough and I want to give others a chance,” Blind said.

Blind, who has had to leave out injured Man. United forward Memphis Depay, also revealed that he tried to coax 35-year-old Dirk Kuyt out of retirement but the Feyenoord forward said he would only return if he was guaranteed a starting place.

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