Oscar, how is the fitness of the squad, which players will be unavailable against Heracles?
,,Kian Fitz-Jim, Davy Klaassen and Youri Regeer will definitely be unavailable. Unfortunately, this week also brought the news that Joeri Heerkens’ season is over; he is set to undergo surgery. It is not yet entirely certain whether Takehiro Tomiyasu will travel to Almelo."
Unfortunately, Ajax disappointed last weekend with a defeat against FC Twente. How have you processed that loss from last week?
,,The defeat against FC Twente was disappointing, that is clear. At such moments you need strong character to respond in the right way. It starts with working harder, staying together as a team and taking responsibility. At a club like Ajax, criticism comes when you do not win, and you have to accept that."
,,I was very clear with the players this week: wearing this shirt comes with responsibility. Fortunately, I then saw a group that was sharp and motivated, fully focused on tomorrow’s match. I expect them to show the best version of themselves against Heracles."
What are the areas for improvement in Saturday’s match against Heracles?
,,Every match is different, but against Twente we mainly fell short technically. During the build-up, many simple passes did not come off and in the final phase in front of goal we were careless. The two goals we conceded originated from situations that began far from our own penalty area. Depending on the opponent, you will always have to make certain adjustments tactically, physically and strategically, but mentally our approach never changes; at Ajax every match must be won."
What do you know about the upcoming opponent, Heracles? Like Ajax, they are also entering the tense final weeks of the season.
,,Heracles are a side we must certainly take into account, especially at this stage. Like us, they are entering the tense final weeks of the season. This year they have often played better than their results suggest. Particularly at home, they have shown they can trouble almost any opponent. Because they are fighting for survival in the Eredivisie, we can expect a match in which they give everything. It will be intense, full of energy, and I expect tough duels. It is up to us to match that at the very least and approach the match with focus, appropriate humility, but full ambition. At this stage, we must treat every match like a final."
