Former Netherlands coach Marco van Basten is returning to the national team's staff, as assistant to recently appointed coach Danny Blind.

The Dutch football association says on Thursday that Van Basten has agreed a contract until the end of July 2018.

Van Basten was coach of the national team from 2004-2008, a tenure that included the 2006 World Cup and 2008 European Championship.

He also made 58 appearances for the Netherlands during a distinguished career as a striker, and played a pivotal role in its 1988 European Championship triumph.

Blind, who replaced Guus Hiddink earlier this month, welcomed Van Basten's appointment, saying "he brings a trove of experience as a top player, but also as national coach at two tournaments."