Davy Klaassen speaks to Ajax Life about the latest situation at Ajax. The midfielder reflects, among other things, on the home match against sc Heerenveen, when a comfortable 2-0 lead slipped away after the break.
Klaassen does not know whether Sunday's drop-off was necessarily down to fitness. ''There are other factors that also play a part. We had a good and intensive pre-season. I therefore do not think fitness is a problem. In more difficult moments in the match, it is important that we make good decisions, both with and without the ball.''
Now his focus is on the first meeting with FC Sion in the Conference League play-offs. Klaassen already has a fair idea of what awaits Ajax in Switzerland on Thursday.
''The coaching staff are preparing us in these days for the specific strengths and weaknesses of FC Sion. We want to produce a good result as the next step towards the main tournament. That is what we are going for,'' said the combative Klaassen, who knows Ajax are facing a crucial two-legged tie in Europe.
''Of course, nobody here wants a season without European football,'' Klaassen puts into words the feeling within the Ajax squad. ''I do not want to think about that either. So everyone is fully aware of how important Thursday's match is. By the way, I already had that feeling in the earlier rounds as well.''
Finally, Klaassen expresses his appreciation for the Ajax fans, who on Thursday will once again ensure a full away end. ''A full away end gives us support, wherever you are. And I also think it is wonderful to see that so many Ajax fans are always there with us. I am very grateful to them for that, because it really is no small thing to keep being there time and again.''
Ajax kick off against FC Sion on Thursday at 20:15. The return match follows a week later at the Johan Cruyff ArenA.