Under-fire Dutch coach Dick Advocaat has confirmed that he may step down from his position after Euro 2004.

Advocaat’s current deal runs to the 2006 World Cup but given the level of abuse he has received from Dutch supporters, he may well decide to calll it a day after Euro 2004.

“Things have happened that should not have happened,” said Advocaat. “Borders have been crossed.

“I am disappointed, not in the players, as they grow to each other more and more and form a very tight team.”

It was Advocaat’s decision to take off the attacking Arjen Robben and replace him with defensive midfielder Paul Bosvelt during Holland’s 3-2 defeat to the Czech Republic, which provoked the latest outbursts against the coach.

Holland were leading 2-1 at the time but went on to lose 3-2.

“I am also very proud that this team, that was written off two years ago, has got through to the semi-finals after all,’ added Advocatt. “France, Germany, Italy and Spain cannot say the same.

“But I am disappointed anyway. Things have happened that have taken away my joy in the job.”