Robin van Persie has returned to Netherlands’ full squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against France and Bulgaria.

The Fenerbahce forward last played for his country in October 2015, but – with Dick Advocaat’s side at risk of missing out on the finals – he has been recalled for a key double-header, making the final cut after being included in a preliminary selection.

Netherlands are currently third in Group A, three points behind both Sweden and France, and Advocaat has also brought Karim Rekik back into the squad and handed a first call-up to Donny van de Beek.

A group of eight players – including Everton new boy Davy Klaassen – were cut from the provisional group.