The 30-year-old AC Milan midfielder was named as cover for Wesley Sneijder who injured his knee Sunday. Sneijder could still play in Wednesday's match at the Amsterdam Arena.

Seedorf has scored 11 goals in 77 internationals, but has not played for the Oranje since June 2004.

Netherlands coach Marco van Basten also called up AZ Alkmaar defender Tim de Cler to replace FC Barcelona left back Giovanni van Bronckhorst, who has strained his Achilles' tendon.

Seedorf's recall came a week after he publicly appealed to Van Basten for a spot on the Dutch roster.

Van Basten had selected youth over experience looking toward the 2008 European Championship after the Netherlands was knocked out of the World Cup in a round-of-16 match against Portugal.

``I've waited years for this moment,'' Seedorf told a Dutch TV station after his recall. ``I told Van Basten that I'm going to try to give this the maximum effort. It won't be easy (to win a starting spot), but I'm very happy with this chance.''

Van Basten said he was still searching for the right balance in midfield.

``You need people who can win tackles, runners, creative players, leaders and strategists,'' Van Basten said. ``The midfield should have a combination of all those qualities. But it's not easy to find all these qualities in players.''

Eight England players have withdrawn from the match, but Van Basten is not underestimating coach Steve McClaren's team.

``We're playing a quality opponent,'' Van Basten said. ``This match will give our team a chance to get used to playing together again and give me the chance to see some new players.''

The Dutch federation said Monday that Arsenal striker Robin van Persie will miss the match because his wife is due to deliver their first child.