Reiziger Cites Need for Continued Development

Ajax coach Michael Reiziger has indicated that midfielder Sean Steur is not yet ready to step up to the Netherlands’ Young Orange squad, despite his increasing role within the Ajax first team. Reiziger emphasized the importance of allowing Steur time to mature and consistently perform at a high level.

“You want to offer such a boy time to develop properly,”

Michael Reiziger

Reiziger acknowledged Steur’s progress, noting his status as a regular player for Ajax, albeit not in every match. He stated his intention to continue monitoring Steur’s development and assess his readiness for the Young Orange team in the future.

Competition for Midfield Spots

The decision comes as Reiziger has already selected midfielders Tygo Land, Jorg Schreuders, and Gjivai Zechiël for the current international match. While Steur has experience playing at a high level, Reiziger is unsure if he can immediately contribute as much as the current midfielders.

“I don’t know if he can bring as much as the boys who are there. I’ll have to find that out in the future.”

Michael Reiziger

Steur will participate with the Dutch O19 team during the current international break.

Balancing Youth Development and National Team Goals

Reiziger highlighted the importance of balancing youth development with the immediate needs of the Young Orange team, which is striving to secure European Championship participation. He emphasized the need to determine what is best for Steur’s long-term growth.

“The Under 19s play important qualifying matches and so do we. You also feel: what is best for that boy? I see Sean making incredibly big steps. But let’s look at it over a slightly longer period of time.”

Michael Reiziger

Steur’s Recent Performance

Steur recently scored his first goal for Ajax in De Klassieker against Feyenoord, a moment he described as a moment you will never forget. Despite the personal milestone, Steur expressed disappointment that the goal did not result in a victory for his team.

“He came at my feet and I decided not to think and just shoot. It was intended for that corner, but the fact that it flies in like that is quite a thing.”

Sean Steur

“We really came here to win, so I’m not satisfied. We gave everything as a team, so I can be satisfied with that. Just a shame about the result.”

Sean Steur