Klopp talks up Ajax credentials

Borussia Dortmund coach Juergen Klopp has praised the technical skills of his side’s first UEFA Champions League opponents, Ajax.

Dortmund will host the Eredivisie champions on Wednesday and Klopp’s anticipating an ‘exciting game’.

However, the German coach believes Ajax respect his side as Dortmund have won the past two Bundesliga titles and are renowned for their passionate home support.

“Ajax are a great football team,” Klopp said.

“It’s enjoyable watching them play because of their technical skills but I think they, being a young team that has just recently signed the likes of (Ryan) Babel in order to have more experienced players on the pitch, have got respect for us, and for our stadium.

“So it will be an exciting game.”

Dortmund warmed up for their opening group fixture in the European competition with a 3-0 Bundesliga win over Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday.

Klopp’s side are unbeaten on home turf in all competitions since their last Champions League fixture in December 2011 when they lost to Marseille.

Dortmund face a very difficult task of qualifying for the Champions League Round of 16 with Real Madrid and Manchester City the other two teams in Group D.

“We have a difficult group but we can’t think about that now,” Klopp said.

“What’s important is the fact we’re facing Ajax.

“There will be an extraordinary atmosphere.

“It’s still summer.

“People will be in a good mood and they will see us play an interesting and difficult yet cool game.”