Ten Hag on Ramos suspension: "His absence leaves a gaping hole"
The Ajax boss spoke ahead of the Round of 16 second leg stating: "Madrid are desperate to win win something this season with the Champions League their last chance".
Ajax coach Erik Ten Hag spoke to the media at the Santiago Bernabéu ahead of Tuesday's UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg.
What do you expect from Real Madrid: "I expect them to be well up for this game as obviously they are desperate to win silverware this season and the Champions League is their last chance. We're still competing on three fronts".
Last chance saloon for Real Madrid, is that something the benefits Ajax?: "Despite them being third in LaLiga, the Champions is their realistic opportunity now to win a title this season and I imagine this will be evident in their attitude".
If you could single out just one Real Madrid player: "They have many fine players but if I was pushed to name just one, then I'd have to confess that I'm a fan of Modric".
Real Madrid's weaknesses: "I watched the past two clásicos and have seen the teams strengths and weaknesses. It's vital that we dominate strategic aspects of the game".
Ajax's positives: "We're a good team at creating pressure and our possession levels have improved. We could improve on out counter attacking play and am confident that if we retain and dominate possession we can take a step forward".
What do you expect from Real Madrid?: "A Madrid side who played in a similar manner to that in Amsterdam. They're going to go for us and put us under tremendous pressure".
No Sergio Ramos: "It's a big loss for Madrid. Modric and Kroos boss the midfield but Ramos is a lynch pin at the heart of the defence and his absence will be both a physical and mental loss for Madrid. Having said that they can manage without Ramos".
Fixtures: "There's no denying that this will be our 42nd game of the current season and we have players who've had little or no break after the World Cup. We've had a boost with no league game this week-end and Madrid come into the tie after two games against Barça. I feel that will be an important factor but not necessarily a definitive one".