Tottenham Hotspur star comments on his return to Ajax.
Tottenham Hotspur defender Toby Alderweireld has admitted that returning to former club Ajax was tough emotionally.
Spurs knocked Ajax out of the Champions League semi-finals, beating the Dutch side on away goals after a thrilling comeback.
Alderweireld told Belgian newspaper Nieuwsblad he was thankful for the positive reception he received from Ajax fans.
He reflected on the boos Luis Suarez received at Anfield the previous evening.
Alderweireld went on to add that he is open to returning to Ajax at some point in the future.
He said: “It sounds crazy, but I am especially happy that this day is over. I am not crazy about joy here, it really hurts me to eliminate Ajax like that. It is a very double feeling.
“I am so grateful for the welcome here at the Johan Cruijff Arena. I also saw Luis Suárez on Tuesday at Anfield, who was blown out loud, but I, Jan Vertonghen and Christian Eriksen received zero negative reactions, so much respect. I am very grateful for that.
“I don’t want to make too popular statements, but a return is one hundred percent certain in my head. I have had wonderful times here with three championships, but also lows. But my family was happy here too.”
Alderweireld of course does not have the same antagonistic game as Suarez and a negative reaction was never likely.
His comments do underline how emotional he found the game, and the difficulties Tottenham’s ex-Ajax stars experienced.
There will be no such issues when Tottenham face Liverpool in the final in Madrid on June 1.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
