Belgium international Toby Alderweireld has suggested that he remains committed to the north London side despite the continuous speculation regarding his future.
The centre-back is set to be reunited with Ajax when Spurs entertain them in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final but the defender has stressed that there won’t be any emotions during the tie.
He said: “I can make very popular statements, but I don’t know what’s coming my way. I do not say ‘no’ in advance for the future. But I am now fully focused on Tottenham and after that I also have a contract for one season. We will mainly have to play our own game. But at times when we are under pressure, we have to defend well and there may be moments to break out. But we can also put pressure, actually all the ways of playing football.”
Ajax have reached the final four of the Champions League after getting the better of Juventus and Real Madrid over the past two rounds, but Spurs have likewise proved their mettle after ousting Manchester City, who were regarded as the favourites to secure the European crown.
As such, an even contest can be anticipated between the teams and it remains to be seen whether the fitness could have any impact on the game.
Spurs had a tough derby against West Ham United on Saturday where Ajax had the weekend off and that has already been stated by manager Mauricio Pochettino, who has been far from pleased with the help from FA. Meanwhile, Alderweireld’s future remains a talking point with his contract expiring at the end of next season, and so far, he has been reluctant to pen terms at the north London side.
This has spread suggestions that he could be sold during the summer transfer window and Ajax could make an approach for their former graduate.
Ajax sporting director Marc Overmars has previously indicated that the club are hopeful of luring both Alderweireld and teammate Jan Vertonghen back to Amsterdam in the future.