Second Round news Ruud van Nistelrooy, who was dropped by Manchester United at the end of the domestic season, is now in danger of losing his starting place with the Netherlands.

The 29-year-old was the target of unusually outspoken criticism from Marco van Basten yesterday, with the coach admitting he is seriously considering using Dirk Kuyt instead against Portugal on Sunday.

Van Nistelrooy has scored once at this World Cup and was substituted in all three group games. He was quiet in Wednesday's 0-0 draw with Argentina, albeit with little service, while Kuyt, who played most of the game on the left but then moved into the middle, caught the eye.

"It is not unreasonable that we expect something more from him," said Van Basten, who has been protective of Van Nistelrooy in the past. "We are hoping for more." He added pointedly: "Ruud will understand that if you play well, you will not be substituted."

Addressing the possibility of dropping van Nistelrooy, he said: "The central position up front is a point of discussion and the chance that Dirk will start on Sunday has increased."

If Van Nistelooy plays against Portugal he will most likely face his club-mate Cristiano Ronaldo, with whom he has had two United training-ground confrontations. "There is no problem," Van Nistelrooy said. "I just say the same as he did: nothing happened. We get along really well."

The winners of the Portugal-Netherlands game will face England or Ecuador. Guardian Service