Marco van Basten's side now travel to Albania looking for a win which would take them level on points with leaders Romania.

Albania have proved tough opponents this campaign, though, having conceded just six goals in their seven matches.

And to make things more difficult, it seems there could once again be discontent brewing in the Dutch camp.

AC Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf, who returned to the national side last November after a two-year absence but has been restricted to substitute appearances in recent months, is unhappy with his role in the team.

"I play a supporting part now and that's no fun," he told AD Sportwereld.

"I have difficulties with the fact that, since my return, I never became a starter. It's mentally heavy, not starting while you play on a weekly basis at your club.

"Being on the bench is not funny.

"I want to play, but I will keep on supporting the coach, for the time being, in his choices."

Seedorf is confident he will start tonight with Van Basten set to rotate his squad.

"I feel that I will be in the starting line-up," he said. "Not that I have concrete proof of that, that's just what I think before each match.

"I always try to stay positive."

Third-placed Bulgaria, who have played a game more than the Dutch, are in danger of losing touch with the top two if they cannot see off Luxembourg in Sofia.

There was much criticism of goalkeeper Dimitar Ivankov from within the camp after Saturday's defeat, and he could pay the price with Georgi Petkov standing by to start.

In the group's other game, Slovenia welcome Belarus to Celje looking for a victory which would see them leapfrog their opponents.