Erik ten Hag is not planning to make any changes to his team’s style of playing in the next UEFA Champions League game against Lille. He said as much during the press conference leading up tot he European game. Ajax will have to play without central duo Joel Veltman and Daley Blind on Wednesday due to suspensions. “We’ll need to make concessions in the centre, but not in our playing style.”
Ten Hag wouldn’r reveal how Ajax would fill the gap left by the two defensive pillars. “I’ve figured it out, but you’ll have to wait until tomorrow” was all the coach had to say on the topic.
Mazraoui a question mark
In addition to the two absent defenders, there is also a question mark behind Noussair Mazraoui’s name, said Ten Hag during the press conference. The defender suffered a knee injury in Saturday’s game against Heracles. “He has a sprain, which impairs his movements. We’re going to train later, and then we’ll see if he can play on Wednesday. We have to wait and see.”
Resistance from Lille
The French opponent is currently in last place in the Champions League’s pool H, with only one point. Lille has no use for a tie and will need to win. According to Ten Hag, this won’t change anything to the French team’s game plan. “Lille will come out fighting, and not only because of their starting position. That’s what they did in Amsterdam, after all.”
Train
Ajax travelled to Lille by train on Tuesday. When they arrived, it appeared that Hakim Ziyech is very popular in France. “There were many Moroccans”, says the midfielder. “That was nice. I enjoyed the trip. The train is better than flying.”