Van Persie set to miss opening game

Robin van Persie is still short of fitness ahead of Netherlands' Euro 2008 opener against Italy on Monday.

'Robin (van Persie) is improving every day and that satisfies me,' said coach Marco van Basten.

'But it is logical that he has to make up lost ground concerning his condition.'

Forward Van Persie, who missed much of last season with his club Arsenal through injuries, trained alone for two weeks before joining squad sessions on Wednesday.

He has told reporters that although he could play against Italy, the full 90 minutes may prove too much for him.

Van Basten refused on Friday to divulge details of his tactical plan or likely starting line-up for the Group C match against Italy in Berne.

'We are practising for several scenarios,' he said.