The 28-year-old left-back has made 18 international appearances to date, but his poor form at Villa Park has seen him cast into the wilderness since he played in the 2-2 draw with Germany in August 2005. However, he has begun to regain his confidence under Martin O'Neill, and was one of the few players to emerge from the recent Manchester United horror trilogy with any plaudits. Bouma could complete his renaissance with an appearance when the Netherlands face Russia in Amsterdam on 7 February. Edwin van der Saar, Denny Landzaat, Dirk Kuyt and Arjen Robben complete the England-based quintet in the squad.
