Ajax coach Francesco Farioli tried to explain the difference in level between 2-2 draw against FC Utrecht and the previous matches against PSV and Feyenoord (3-2 win and 0-2 win). As Voetbal International report, it seems the Italian has clear explanations for the recent dip in performance.
After the draw against Utrecht, Farioli was asked at the press conference how it was possible that Ajax was able to step on the gas against Feyenoord and PSV, but his team looked tired on Wednesday night.
“That was five or six games ago, and you can calculate how many minutes ago that was. We are missing Mika Godts now and also had problems with Wout Weghorst and Brian Brobbey. So it is logical that you pay the price for that somewhere. More rotation? More than this is impossible (laughs).”
Ajax, who were on the rise, suffered setbacks again against Utrecht. David Min took the lead for the visitors before an Anton Gaaei wondergoal and an own goal from Jens Toornstra gave the hosts the lead. With a late own goal from veteran stopper Remko Pasveer, Ajax waved goodbye to two dropped points.
Still, Farioli remains optimistic and emphasized the importance of keeping the season in perspective.
“Let’s look forward to the next match. There are still five matches to be played (before the winter break) and they are all important. We have to recharge and prepare ourselves in the best possible way for the match against AZ on Sunday.”
