Suarez will miss the World Cup semi-final tussle between Uruguay and Holland in Cape Town tomorrow as a consequence of the deliberate handball in the final seconds of extra-time that denied Ghana a place in the last four.

The incident has left a sour taste, with some critics suggesting FIFA should invoke a rule change that would allow for a 'penalty goal' in much the same manner as a try is still awarded in rugby if a deliberate attempt is made to stop one that would definitely have been scored.

Stekelenburg is not getting involved in the politics, but he is happy to have a bit of fun at Suarez's expense.

"I sent him a text message saying that he has been the best goalkeeper of the tournament," Stekelenburg told De Telegraaf.

"I think he should get the Lev Yashin Award."

There is a more serious point for Stekelenburg to make though. As Suarez is missing, the 27-year-old knows Uruguay will be weakened, which offers Holland a better chance of reaching their first World Cup final since 1978.

"The important matter is that he cannot play," he said.

"It is a big thing because he is always a threat."