Thursday, 25th October, 2012
Klaas-Jan Huntelaar’s goal for Schalke against Arsenal in the Champions League last night has moved him ahead of Johan Cruyff in the list of Dutch players who have scored the most goals in European competition.
Huntelaar opened the scoring against Arsenal in the second half, before countryman Ibrahim Afellay added a second to secure a comfortable 2-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium.
The Dutch striker had come into the clash level with Cruyff on 38 goals, but now moves ahead of the legendary former Barcelona, Ajax and Feyenoord player.
Huntelaar however still has further ground to make up if he wishes to become the top Dutch goalscorer in European competition.
Ahead of the 29-year-old are Rob Rensenbrink, who scored 40 goals in 66 games, Patrick Kluivert, who managed 41 goals in 94 matches and, leading the list, Ruud van Nistelrooy, who notched 62 goals in 88 games.
Huntelaar has needed 58 games to reach his 39 goal total.
relatedNewsStoryThe prolific forward has scored 20 of his 39 goals with Schalke, underlining his importance to the German side.
Huntelaar’s contract at the Bundesliga club is due to expire at the end of the season and there has been much speculation over whether he will sign a new deal.
At present contract talks between club and player are on hold until December, when Schalke hope Huntelaar will quickly reach a decision on his future.
