Cruyff sees hope for Ajax

Dutch great Johan Cruyff feels former team Ajax’s chances of going deep in the Champions League are helped by playing Manchester City early.

Having defeated the Premier League champions 3-1 earlier in the group stage, Eredivisie champions Ajax meet City at Etihad stadium for the reverse fixture on Tuesday.

Cruyff, 65, is optimistic the Amsterdam giants can repeat their heroics from a fortnight ago.

“It’s simple, you play to win,” Cruyff told De Telegraaf. “In the event of a draw, you still risk losing and it will be very difficult regardless.

“I think it is an advantage that Ajax are playing Manchester City now. (City) must take the initiative.”

According to Cruyff, Ajax already have the advantage over their English rivals.

“There are many less chances (for Ajax) to make mistakes. Attacking teams are often set for trouble after November.”

Ajax sit third in Group D, behind leaders Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid, while City are last.