Ajax coach is an Albion admirer

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Maduro looking forward to the challenge of facing Roberto De Zerbi at the Amex.

Bruce Talbot

2023-10-26T05:30:00Z

Acting head coach Hedwiges Maduro is a big admirer of Albion's style.

Acting Ajax head coach Hedwiges Maduro confesses he is a big fan of Albion’s style and Roberto De Zerbi.

But he believes his side are ready to ‘show themselves’ at the Amex in tonight’s pivotal Europa League tie.

He said, “It’s really impressive how they play, not only this season but also last. He [De Zerbi] a very intelligent coach. When he came they were playing this style of football after three weeks and Brighton are a very good team. They have a lot of creativity up front, especially their ball possession.

“The players may change but the style stays the same. Everyone in the Brighton squad can play in their style. If he makes changes the style stays the same. That’s the good thing about Brighton’s coach.”

Maduro took over after Ajax parted company with Maurice Steijn on Monday following a 4-3 defeat to Utrecht on Sunday left them second from bottom of the Eredivisie. They have drawn both their previous Group B ties.

“It’s a very important game,” added Maduro. “We need the points and if we get a good result here two of our last three games are at home in the Ajax stadium with our crowd.

“It’s a different competition and a moment for the players to show themselves. We want to play better but in the Europa League we haven’t lost yet. There is a lot of positivity in this group and that’s the spirit and belief we will need tonight.”