Michel Sanchez has explained his decision to start Kasper Dolberg against Excelsior. The Ajax head coach preferred the Danish striker over Tolu Arokodare, who had just returned from illness, and the out-of-form Marcos Leonardo.
Dolberg rewarded the faith by providing the assist for Julian Brandt's opening goal after 32 minutes. Ajax took the lead but ultimately let the victory slip in a 2-2 draw. Sanchez's side now sits fifth in the Eredivisie with fourteen points from seven matches.
"Tolu had just returned from a period of illness, and Kasper deserved continuity after playing so well in the last match," said Sanchez. "Moreover, I knew that Excelsior really loves one-on-one pressing."
Selection
The choice for Dolberg followed his strong performance in the 5-1 win over Willem II, where he scored once and provided two assists. Against Excelsior, he was replaced after about an hour by Arokodare, who scored the equaliser two minutes later. It was the Nigerian's third league goal this season. Marcos Leonardo, who joined from Al Hilal in the summer for just under twenty million euros, has played zero minutes over Ajax's last three games.
Context
Arokodare's equaliser resulted in the final 2-2 scoreline, a result that cost Ajax two points in the title race. The Amsterdam side now trails leader AZ by five points. Top scorer Julian Brandt, who netted his fourth goal of the season, and the full standings overview can be found in our stats.
Sanchez stressed that he needs all his forwards for the weeks ahead. "I think Mokio and Dolberg both played very well as well. We need all the players," the head coach responded. Ajax's next assignment is the home match against NEC Nijmegen on October 10th. The opponent currently sits eleventh. The complete fixtures schedule is available online.
Dolberg is currently sidelined with an injury, which will further influence Sanchez's choices for the upcoming matches. The Dane was forced off during the clash with Excelsior.
The report in full is at sports.yahoo.com
