Netherlands boss Bert van Marwijk says his side are hitting form at the right time as they prepared for Euro 2012 by thrashing Northern Ireland.

Doubles from Robin van Persie and Ibrahim Afellay and goals from Wesley Sneijder and Ron Vlaar gave the hosts a 6-0 win over Michael O’Neill’s men in Amsterdam.

The comprehensive victory came on the back of the midweek triumph over Slovakia and despite losing to Bulgaria the week before van Marwijk is happy with his players.

While avoiding listing his team as potential winners, the former Feyenoord and Borussia Dortmund coach says his team are getting better with each game.

"We are improving, that's the most important thing," he said.

"I don't know if we are ready (to win it) but we are getting better. I have been very happy with the team in the last three weeks and I think preparations have been very good."

People who read this story also read

• Memories of famous comeback inspires Andy Murray ahead of Gasquet clash
• Dundee United boss wants board to avoid repeat of early-season pressure