The former Manchester United and Real Madrid striker decided to retire from the Oranje after Euro 2008.
“In hindsight, I should never have made the decision to retire from international football after Euro 2008. However, I didn’t know I was going to regret my decision this much,” said van Nistelrooy to Sportweek.
“I really want to go to the World Cup with Oranje. I’m eager to give my all one last time for the national team. Nevertheless, it’s not like I expect head coach Bert van Marwijk to give me a call-up right away.
“I understand that Oranje is not even an option at the moment. I have to get things going at Hamburger SV before thinking about playing at the World Cup.
“The only reason I retired two years ago was because I struggled to keep up with the other players at Real Madrid. I needed all my focus on Real back then. I’m fully match fit again now and I’m looking forward to a comeback.”
