Patriotism appears to have played no small part in Dutch gay men’s selection of their World Cup ”first 11” based on looks and sex appeal, as revealed by a survey conducted by a gay newspaper.
Dutch squad members Robin van Persie, John Heitinga and Jan Kromkamp all make the team, while Manchester United’s Ruud van Nistelrooy secures a place on the bench.
The Gay Krant, which hits the streets on Thursday, says 3 000 of its readers voted for the ”prettiest, most handsome and sexiest players” in its ”FC Hunks” poll.
At the head of the list is Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, followed by Sweden’s Markus Rosenberg and Heitinga in third spot.
The remaining eight, in order of loveliness, are: Michael Owen (England), Van Persie, David Beckham (England), Fredrik Ljungberg (Sweden), Kaka (Brazil), Fernando Torres (Spain), Kromkamp and Iker Casillas (Spain).
The reserves are: Nelson Haedo Valdez (Paraguay), Francesco Totti (Italy), Van Nistelrooy and Oswaldo Sanchez (Mexico).
Gay Krant is offering its readers a special centrefold pull-out, as well as a list explaining footballing terms and a review of the gay entertainment venues in the German cities hosting the competition. — Sapa-dpa