Dortmund defeat exposed Ajax's lack of steel, claims Gullit

22-Sep-2012 4:50:00 PM

The Euro 1988 hero has voiced his opinion that the Eredivisie holders must bulk up physically if they are to compete with Europe's elite in the Champions League

Netherlands legend Ruud Gullit says Ajax need more steel in their squad if they are to be successful on the continental stage.

The former midfielder believes the Dutch champions were good with the ball at feet in their 1-0 Champions League loss against Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday, but their lack of a physical presence cost them.

"The balance to perform at top level isn't there at Ajax," Gullit wrote in his column for De Telegraaf.

"That's the feeling I got when I watched Borussia Dortmund versus Ajax. They put in a good performance and looked good in possession, but they lacked a bit of steel," Gullit wrote in his column in De Telegraaf.

"They miss a player like Ronald Spelbos, Jan Wouters or Frank Rijkaard. Or guys like Johan Neeskens and Wim Suurbier back in the 1970s. Players who are excellent on the ball, but are also real men when it comes to the 'nitty-gritty'.

"That's what Ajax needed in the second half, but they failed to deliver. Christian Poulsen is not that type of player either.

"The balance at Ajax simply isn't right. They have too many showpieces and not enough players who get stuck in."

Ajax resume European action at home to Real Madrid on October 3.

Inside Goal.Com

Why Ancelotti is the right man to deliver La Decima
In the aftermath of the announcement of Mourinho's imminent departure from Real Madrid, Brendon Netto discusses why Ancelotti could be an able replacement.
Milan would be foolish to let go of Allegri
The Rossoneri coach's future has been mired in doubt despite the club finishing within the Champions League spots after a dismal start to the season...
Arsenal should build on CL qualification
Arsenal were ecstatic last night after securing fourth place once again. Brendon Netto discusses why it's time Arsenal build on this platform and finally move forward..
Transfer Talk: Read all the gossips
The Goal.com Rumour Mill is your 24/7 source for all the latest rumblings in the global transfer market.
Who is the greatest CL striker ever?
Enter our competition now and you will be in with a chance of winning one of four replica football shirts. Simply pick your favourite and subscribe to our YouTube channel