Ajax host Europa League leaders Lazio in Amsterdam this evening and while the visitors arrive in top form, Francesco Farioli’s side are looking to turn things around after two disappointing games against FC Utrecht and AZ Alkmaar respectively.

In the two games that ended 2-2 and 2-1, Brian Brobbey had to settle for a place on the bench. However, the 22-year-old is expected to be in the starting line-up against the Romans. Farioli praised his striker at the Lazio press conference.

“Brobbey is in the fittest phase of his Ajax career.”

When presented with his team’s remarkable winning percentage when Brobbey started (86%), Farioli continued. “The data also shows that he can play many minutes at high intensity. We know how decisive he is, so I don’t need numbers like that.”

“If I have to come in, I still feel good. I feel good and mentally very fresh,” says Brobbey himself.

A main topic of the warm-up press conference was the fitness of the selection. However, Farioli no longer wanted to hear the word “tired”.

“Anyone who talks about it will be fined. That’s why I won’t use that word anymore.”

However, the Italian coach was still aware of the issue and continued: “Unfortunately we can’t give anyone a break as we play every two days. We have to find the energy and motivation from within.”

Farioli hinted at the status of Jordan Henderson, Mika Godts and Devyne Rensch. “They’re all doing well, so they’ll be there on Thursday.”

GBeNeFN | Max Bradfield