Ajax youngsters suffer stage fright

Ajax coach Peter Bosz admitted it would be understandable for his young side to feel nervous - and his fears were confirmed as they were never able to show off the full extent of their glittering promise.

Six of the starting line-up were 21 or under in the youngest 11 to start a major European final with an average age of 22 years and 280 days. In defender Matthijs de Ligt, they had the youngest player to feature in one at 17 years and 285 days.

This was a night of disappointment for this great, historic old club but they are staying true to their finest traditions by producing outstanding young talent and showing a commitment to attacking football.

Ajax have established the foundations for more success.