AZ without Smit for Ajax clash, Goes fit to return

Smit remains sidelined ahead of Saturday's trip to Ajax but is in final stages of recovery; Goes cleared to return after two weeks out.

AZ will be without midfielder Kees Smit for Saturday's Eredivisie clash at Ajax. The talented midfielder is in the final phase of his recovery but is not yet fit enough to feature. Smit last played on 20 September in AZ's 1-0 win over Telstar and has since made two appearances for Jong Oranje.

Defender Wouter Goes, however, is fit to return after missing the past two weeks with injury. The 22-year-old centre-back's availability is a boost for AZ, who face a congested fixture schedule. After Ajax, AZ host Juventus at the AFAS Stadion before travelling to FC Groningen days later.

AZ will also be without forward Jizz Hornkamp (injury) and Ayoub Oufkir (suspension) on Saturday. Manager Leeroy Echteld said the team must maintain focus despite the demanding schedule ahead.