Daley Blind has backed former club Ajax to bounce back next season from what seems certain to be the loss of their Eredivisie title to PSV Eindhoven.

Frank de Boer has led Ajax to the last four consecutive Eredivisie titles, but this season his men are eight points behind PSV with just six games left to play.




Ajax recently cut the gap between the two clubs by beating PSV 3-1 at the Philips Stadion, though it looks too little too late.

 


For Blind, who quit Ajax last summer to join Manchester United, the Dutch champions are in transition and there is no reason to believe the future will not be bright again next season.

The Netherlands midfielder told Voetbal International: "I try to follow Ajax as much as possible, when I have time to watch the games.

relatedNewsStory

"Everyone knows the current games for Ajax could be better, it's nothing new that I'm saying that.

"They now have a very young group. The players who are expected to take the lead are quite young, but when you see how many players have extended their contract…

"As Ajax keep the group together, there is something that will bloom again next season.

"It's also very positive that Frank de Boer has indicated he will remain with the club next season. De Boer is incredibly important for Ajax."

Blind made a total of 143 senior appearances during his time at Ajax, scoring three goals and providing eight assists in the process.

He cost Manchester United a fee of £13.8m to snare from the Dutch champions and has established himself as a key man in Louis van Gaal's chosen system at Old Trafford.

Don't bet on football until you've visited Inside Bet! Interesting markets, top tips, betting facts – get all the info before you bet.