Alderweireld confident of closing the gap

Defender Toby Alderweireld is confident Ajax can chase down league leaders AZ Alkmaar and lift the Eredivisie title come May.

The defending champions are currently five points behind Gertjan Verbeek’s side, but after seeing his team reduce a large deficit to be crowned champions last season, Alderweireld believes the Amsterdam giants can turn their campaign around and overtake AZ at the top of the table.

However, the defender admits his team must improve if they are to retain their title.

“Hopefully we will be crowned champions again this season,” the 22-year-old told De Telegraaf.

“We are now closing in on the top spot. I hope to improve my game and I am sure the rest of the team can, too.”

Ajax resume league action on January 22 with an away match against AZ.

The two sides are scheduled to replay their KNVB Beker clash on Thursday, January 19 after it was abandoned at the first attempt when goalkeeper Esteban was sent off following an incident with an encroaching spectator.