'Kuyt key to Holland hopes'

Ian Callaghan believes Dirk Kuyt's penchant for scoring on the big occasion could prove a decisive factor in Holland's World Cup hopes.

The Liverpool forward has built up a reputation for netting crucial strikes for both club and country from an adopted right-wing berth.

And while Callaghan accepts Kuyt may not be able to boast the sort of flair the likes of Dutch teammates Wesley Sneijder and Robin van Persie can offer, the Reds' all-time record appearance holder feels the 29-year-old's unique goalscoring knack makes him integral to the Netherlands' South Africa prospects.

"He's probably more of a worker rather than a winger who takes defenders on for pace, but he's extremely effective at creating assists and scoring goals," Callaghan told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"His incredible knack of netting crucial goals on big occasions is something that can't be taught. It's a natural instinct and players either have it or they don't, and Dirk certainly seems to have it."

Kuyt, who will be aiming to help Holland secure top spot in Group E against Cameroon tonight, relocated from striker to wide-man shortly after arriving at Anfield from Feyenoord in the summer of 2006.

Having operated in a similar position to great distinction for Liverpool during his 857 run outs for the club, Callaghan is well placed to pass judgment on those who have followed in his footsteps.  

"He's made the transition from forward to right-wing very well," said Cally.

"It can take time to adjust to a position on the wing and it can leave you feeling a bit isolated, but Dirk has improved during his time at club.

"With Kuyt you're always guaranteed to get a full 90 minutes work out of him. He'll give you 100 per cent from start to finish and never lets you down.

 "He's made himself a very important part of the Liverpool team."