Scottish interest in the Scotland-free Euro 2000 grew as Rangers pair Arthur Numan and Giovanni van Bronckhorst celebrated their call-up to the Dutch squad.

The Ibrox duo were confirmed in Frank Rijkaard's 22-man party for the eagerly-anticipated Finals, which begin in eight days.

Van Bronckhorst's inclusion was no surprise, but it was more of a sweat for Numan, who faced serious competition for his full-back role. However, Barcelona's Winston Bogarde finally had to admit defeat in his fight to overcome injury - sealing Numan's place.

Van Bronckhorst said: 'Playing in Scotland has made me a better player and Mr Rijkaard believes that it has sharpened my game and I've improved. It is a great honour to be involved, especially as the tournament is being partly held in our country.'

Bogarde, Chelsea new boy Jimmy-Floyd Hasselbaink and PSV Eindhoven's Andrei Ooijer were the three players cut from the 25 which started the week at Rijkaard's squad camp.

Other notable inclusions are former Old Firm pair Pierre van Hooijdonk and Peter van Vossen. Rangers target Bert Konterman was also named by Rijkaard.