Jordy Clasie and Maarten Martens are looking forward to their first match against Ilves in the preliminary round of the Conference League with confidence. Most importantly, the captain is fit.
โWeโve had a good feeling and good preparation,โ began a fresh-faced Clasie on AZโs club channels. The captain believes the Alkmaar sideโs relegation from the Europa League to the Conference League is something the players need to look past. โI think everyone knows how important it is for the club, but also for your own development, because it allows you to show your true potential.โ
Last season ended poorly for Clasie due to injury, which caused him to miss the KNVB Cup final. He did eventually participate in the play-offs. โIโm feeling good and Iโm in good contact with the medical staff. The end of last season wasnโt ideal, but Iโve started pre-season well and I feel fit.โ
Coach Martens is also pleased with how AZโs preparation has gone. The manager sees a potential advantage in Finland, where his team will play on artificial turf.
โThatโs certainly not a disadvantage. The boys have done a lot in the youth ranks and also in the Keuken Kampioen Divisie. You just want everyone to be enthusiastic at all times and to be together on the pitch. Iโve seen that too, and thatโs how it should be.โ
GBeNeFNย |ย Max Bradfield
