The Amsterdammers were drawn in the Group D of Europe’s premier club competition along with Real Madrid, Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund.
Ajax Amsterdam midfielder, http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Siem-de-Jong-c33482, has revealed that his side feels no pressure competing in UEFA Champions League this term after being drawn in the Group D, which is considered as the ‘Group of Death’ that includes Real
Madrid, Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund.
The 23-year-old midfielder-c*m-striker, who made his professional career debut in the 2007/08 season at Amsterdam Arena, has stressed that his side will not give up their Champions League hopes without a fight, while admitting
that their chances of making progression are very slim.
“We hope to go as far as possible, but it would be very nice to finish third in Group D. We'll certainly play to win. We have nothing to lose, so we can play with freedom”, De Jong was quoted as saying in a recent interview to
UEFA.com.
The 31-time Dutch champions have achieved glory in the Europe’s most prestigious club competition four times, and the versatile attacking player has revealed that the Amsterdammers are always expected to perform highly.
“It's a motivation to succeed. People always expect a lot from Ajax and we will do our best to fulfil those expectations”, De Jong added.
Following the departure of http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Jan-Vertonghen-c17814 and Theo Janssen, the Amsterdammers' management decided to make the 23-year-old the new captain of the team.
When asked about the feeling of wearing the armband, the Dutch midfielder expressed his delight, while admitting that it is an honour.
“It is a great honour. This is my sixth season here; I've seen many players come and go. Jan [Vertonghen] has left, http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Theo-Janssen-c34871 is gone and I was next in line. I won't suddenly change now I'm captain. I'll just help the team as
much as I can. I'd do the same without the armband”, De Jong concluded.
The midfield ace has thus far represented the Amsterdam giants in over 100 games.
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