Newcastle United midfielder Vurnon Anita feels that the education that Ajax provided to him is still an integral part of his game.
Schooled at Ajax’s famed youth academy, the Dutch defensive midfielder joined Newcastle United in 2012 and over the years has established himself as a key member of their squad.
A defensive midfielder by trade, Anita has played in different positions for Newcastle in the last few years and admits that English football has helped him to develop a physical side to his game.
However, the 26-year-old insisted that the football grounding that he received at Ajax remains an important part of his game and he has the technique that most footballers coming out of the famous club’s stable possess.
Speaking to Dutch daily De Telegraaf, the Newcastle midfielder said: “Have I become a different footballer in England? No, actually.
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“I am still a true Ajax footballer, who still has his technique, but I have become physically stronger, which is needed to survive in England.”
Anita made his debut for the Netherlands in 2010 but thus far, has earned only three national team caps.
However, he has an opportunity to make a comeback on the international scene as Danny Blind has included the midfielder in his preliminary squad for next month’s international fixtures.
While the final 23-man squad is yet to be announced, Anita is hoping to finally earn a national team call-up after close to five years.
“It is of course a preliminary squad and I have to wait and see whether I end up in the final squad, but it would be nice to have a sequel to my international career.
“I am 26 and have a lot more experience than five years ago. I hope I have many years ahead of me.”
