Ajax play PSV in Eindhoven this Sunday in a crucial game in the battle for the Eredivisie title. With just eight games remaining, Ajax boast a 6-point lead over PSV.
During Friday's press conference, manager Francesco Farioli acknowledged Ajax's recent history and last season's struggles, which saw them finish 35 points behind PSV in the Eredivisie.
Englishman Jordan Henderson's role in Ajax's resurgence cannot be overstated, according to Farioli. "I try to prove how important it is that I made him the team captain every time," said Farioli about his captain.
Henderson joined Ajax in January 2024 after a short stint with Saudi side Al-Ettifaq. The former Liverpool captain has since made 51 appearances for Ajax in all competitions and was made captain before the current campaign. One interesting stat: Ajax have remained unbeaten when Jordan Henderson starts.
"What he brings to the team on and off the pitch is that he’s the benchmark in terms of standard, attitude, and winning mentality. All these elements are key in our process, along with what he brings on the pitch with his quality, understanding, and flexibility on and off the ball."
Brobbey
Unlike Henderson, striker Brian Brobbey has received plenty of criticism under Farioli. The Ajax academy product has only scored 4 goals in the Eredivisie this season, but a lack of contributions will not stop Farioli from praising his pupil.
"He is a key element of the team. This season, especially in the first half, we lacked goals, and his contribution has not been his usual, but his progression throughout the season has been brilliant," said Farioli.
"He’s getting better and better. In the last four or five matches, he did really well. He’s getting mature and more responsible; he’s playing more in favour of the team. When he’s in a position to shoot, he looks to see if a teammate is in a better position. We really need him in the last push"
Midfielder Kenneth Taylor has made big strides in his development and is currently the team's top goalscorer in the Eredivisie with 8. "The most important part is goals. I don't care who scores. Brian (Brobbey) also makes a lot of contributions for Kenneth (Taylor) in terms of assists or keeping two or three opponents around him, so he creates more freedom. Kenneth and Kian (Fitz-Jim) got big benefits from his presence."