Ajax Faces NEC with Injury Concerns Mounting
Ajax enters a crucial home match against NEC with a growing injury list. Key players Ko Itakura, Vitezslav Jaros, and Oleksandr Zinchenko are all sidelined due to injuries, presenting a challenge for interim coach Fred Grim. Davy Klaassen’s availability remains uncertain, adding another layer of complexity to team selection.
Defensive Shuffle for Ajax
The absence of Ko Itakura, who continues to struggle with a back injury, forces a reshuffle in the Ajax defense. Maarten Paes will start in goal following a severe knee injury to Jaros. The likely defensive lineup consists of Anton Gaaei, Josip Sutalo, Youri Baas, and Owen Wijndal. Sutalo has recently secured his place in the starting eleven, displacing Aaron Bouwman. Wijndal returns to the team to cover for the long-term absence of Zinchenko.
Midfield and Attack Adjustments
Youri Regeer is set to return to the midfield after missing the previous match due to illness. The uncertainty surrounding Klaassen’s fitness means Jorthy Mokio is likely to feature in the starting lineup alongside Regeer and Sean Steur. Upfront, Rayane Bounida and Mika Godts are expected to provide width, while Kasper Dolberg will lead the attack, keeping the recently recovered Wout Weghorst on the bench.
Carrizo’s Potential Debut
New winter signing Maher Carrizo has received his work permit and is available for selection. However, Fred Grim remained non-committal regarding his inclusion in the matchday squad, stating further evaluation is needed. Steven Berghuis and Takehiro Tomiyasu are making physical progress but are unlikely to start.
Ajax’s Predicted Lineup
Paes; Gaaei, Sutalo, Baas, Wijndal; Mokio, Regeer, Steur; Bounida, Dolberg, Godts.
Did you know?
Oleksandr Zinchenko has already begun his rehabilitation away from Amsterdam, indicating a lengthy recovery period.
FAQ
Is Ko Itakura playing against NEC? No, Ko Itakura is still injured and will not feature in the match.
Who is replacing Jaros in goal? Maarten Paes will start in goal for Ajax.
Will Maher Carrizo produce his debut? We see uncertain whether Maher Carrizo will be included in the squad.
What is the latest on Takehiro Tomiyasu? Tomiyasu is making progress but is not expected to start.
Is Davy Klaassen fit to play? Davy Klaassen is a doubt for the match.
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