Ruud van Nistelrooy is thrilled to return to the Holland squad playing against San Marino in their Euro 2012 qualifier.

Ruud van Nistelrooy is thrilled to return to the Holland squad after missing the World Cup and will be expected to add to his tally of international goals in tomorrow's Euro 2012 qualifier against San Marino.

The 34-year-old Hamburg striker was overlooked for South Africa as the Oranje marched to the World Cup final, where they suffered an extra-time defeat to Spain.

Van Nistelrooy, who had come out of international retirement with the aim of winning selection for South Africa, has been recalled for the opening Euro 2012 qualifying fixtures with minnows San Marino and Finland, with Robin van Persie ruled out with an ankle injury.

"I'm really glad I'm back," said Van Nistelrooy.

"Of course I would have preferred a World Cup final over San Marino, but I'm really pleased with this opportunity.

"I see this as a bonus."

Although Van Nistelrooy is not sure he will be in Bert van Marwijk's squad when Arsenal striker Van Persie returns to full fitness, he has not ruled out taking part in the European Championships in two years' time.

And the former PSV Eindhoven, Manchester United and Real Madrid frontman will be expected to add to his tally of 33 goals in 64 appearances at the Stadio Olimpico, Serravalle and narrow his deficit to Patrick Kluivert's record of 40 goals for Holland.

"I now enjoy every moment while it lasts," he added.

"But if I stay fit, to maintain the level and have the chance to get to the championship, that would obviously be great.

"I see this as a delicious reward for two years after injuries."

Van Nistelrooy last featured for Holland in the Euro 2008 quarter-final defeat to Russia.

With Giovanni van Bronckhorst having retired after the World Cup final, Van Marwijk has named a new captain - his son-in-law Mark van Bommel.

As well as the Bayern Munich midfielder, Holland, who meet Finland in Rotterdam next Tuesday, will also be able to call upon the likes of Tottenham's Rafael van der Vaart, Inter's Wesley Sneijder and Klaas Jan Huntelaar of AC Milan for tomorrow's fixture.

San Marino have no such luxuries and are ranked 200 places behind their opponents in the world rankings at 202nd.

The hosts will be fielding a team with only three players who have more than 40 caps - defender Simone Bacciocchi, midfielder Damiano Vannucci and striker Andy Selva.

Selva is the only San Marino player to have scored more than one international goal, having netted eight times for his country.

San Marino meet Sweden in their second Euro 2012 qualifier next week.