And so both Steijn and Bergwijn are expecting anything but an easy game up in the north-east of Bulgaria. "It's going to be a tough match. Ludogorets is a major club. You don't get to win the national title in this country twelve times in a row just like that."
The first leg kicks off Thursday at 8pm in Razgrad. Ajax will just have to do without new signings Josip Šutalo, Chuba Akpom and Gaston Avila. Manager Steijn doesn't see that as a problem. "We have enough fine players. As manager you want to have as much choice as possible, but I am happy with the squad. I had the same squad to work with for the first two league games. We'll see come tomorrow."
European debut
A few Ajax players are making their European debuts in Razgrad, including some lads from their own academy: Jay Gorter and Jorrel Hato. The defender was part of the Ajax squad in Europe against FC Union Berlin last year, but didn't see any action out on the pitch. "Our youth academy is important," insisted Steijn. "Against Excelsior we had seven players from our own youth academy in the opening line-up. Kristian Hlynsson has since made his debut appearance in the Eredivisie."
The manager doesn't feel these lads will be under any stress in Bulgaria. "As technical support, we are always working with our players, both individually and as a team. They are all used to playing to capacity crowds. I don't feel this needs any extra preparation."
Captain Steven Bergwijn echoes the manager's words. He sees a squad totally ready for the clash with Ludogorets. "We are one hundred percent ready for tomorrow (Thursday – ed.). The team is looking forward to it. We demand everyone is on point every day."
Action on the pitch for Berghuis
Bergwijn also heard from his manager who else to expect on the team sheet. "I think Steven Berghuis is match-ready, even though he missed Heracles and Excelsior. He should be playing too," hinted Steijn. "Anton Gaaei is also looking good in my view, and is part of the team selection. He won't be in the opening line-up, but he will get a chance to show what a great player he is."
Bergwijn is also happy with the new signings such as Gaaei, Akpom, Avila and Šutalo. "I feel good about them. I'm glad they're there. We haven't had a chance to train with Chuba yet. Josip joined us just yesterday. But when you think about, he does have one World Cup behind him. That boosts the quality in our view."
