Head coach Roger Schmidt assured all followers Friday afternoon that PSV's focus is with the match against Ajax. 'We are playing for a prize. I'm not looking beyond the next game.'
Changes
Unlike Ajax, PSV have been busy with the season for several weeks. With an eye on the return against FC Midtjylland and the possible follow-up route toward the group stage of the UEFA Champions League, some believe it is in line with expectations that Schmidt will grant some players some rest. "Let me say the following about that," Schmidt began. "I have never in my coaching career started with a team that, according to my understanding, would not be the best team for a match. We are on an upward trend and want to win a prize tomorrow," he said.
Game plan
Then the Head Coach revealed himself to be somewhat cryptic. "We are allowed to change five times during the match. The formation you start with is not necessarily also the best formation to finish with. Before every match I consider what the best approach is. The game against Ajax is no exception. I'm not looking at next week's Champions League game. We are playing a final, not an easy one, but I am sure we have a chance to win."
Competitors
Many expect a battle in the Eredivisie this season between Ajax and PSV. Last season, the difference at the final reckoning was 16 points, and that gap needs to be thought before he goes into the mooted duel, according to Schmidt. "Ajax is an incredibly strong team that has been playing together for a long time. I don't think they lost a single key player this summer and the coach has also stayed. That is always a big advantage for a team. On the other hand, we experienced last season that we can match them. Our ambition is to show that throughout the season."
Missing
PSV is missing a number of players against Ajax due to injury. Among others, Maxi Romero is not yet fit and Denzel Dumfries is also not there (yet). When asked, Schmidt addressed his situation. "Everyone knows that he has the desire to make a transfer. He made that request to PSV and we as a club have accepted that. Part of it is that he will not be part of the first selection for the time being."