Steijn and his staff have seen good things during the international period. "The international period was good for me and the staff. We continued training with a small group, as the bulk were away. I have watched many of our matches, FC Utrecht and our internationals. I saw good things there and that is positive. They all played a lot of minutes," the head coach told reporters after training on Thursday.
"Everyone has now been reconnected ahead of Sunday. The boys have been away for a while and I see fresh and happy faces at the club," he continued.
Sickbay
Steijn has a selection with a few doubtful players. "We have some problems heading into Sunday. There are a number of injuries that will hopefully recover in time. Steven Berghuis, Branco van den Boomen, Benjamin Tahirović and Devyne Rensch are all doubtful. I hope the damage is not too bad." Silvano Vos is also not 100% fresh, but the midfielder is additionally serving a suspension on Sunday.
Two days from now, Ajax will face Ron Jans' team at Stadion Galgenwaard. "FC Utrecht away is a nice but traditionally tricky match. They are having a tough time, just like us. I expect a spirited duel on the edge. Both teams need a win."