While the top two teams in the Eredivisie are currently separated by four points, leaders Ajax have a game in hand and a far superior goal difference.

Match preview

Ajax manager Erik Ten Hag pictured in December 2020 © Reuters

Registration issues and failed drug tests have meant that Ajax have been making headlines for the wrong reasons in recent days.

However, Erik ten Hag's side have put together an 11-match unbeaten streak in all competitions, helping them take control of the Eredivisie title race.

Ten Hag will not be satisfied unless the Dutch giants win the treble this season, and there is room from improvement as far as performances are concerned.

Their 3-0 victory over AZ at the end of January was a step in the right direction with just their fourth clean sheet being registered since November 28.

While Ajax reached the quarter-finals of this competition with another success at AZ, PSV required second-half goals to get the better of second-tier Volendam.

Now likely to go seven points adrift of Ajax in the near future, Roger Schmidt will be placing significant focus on this contest as he bids to end the season with a piece of silverware.

Unlike their opponents, PSV were in action at the weekend as they posted a much-needed 3-0 triumph at home to FC Twente.

Donyell Malen ended his four-match wait for a goal by netting a double either side of half time, taking his tally for the season to 17 strikes.

Ajax KNVB Beker form: WW
Ajax form (all competitions): WWWWWW

PSV Eindhoven KNVB Beker form: WW
PSV Eindhoven form (all competitions): WWWWLW

Team News

PSV Eindhoven head coach Roger Schmidt pictured in October 2020 © Reuters

Goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg is in line to start for Ajax after Andre Onana was suspended for 12 months due to a positive drugs test.

A 10-day break from action leaves Ten Hag with several decisions to make regarding his selection, but Sebastien Haller should feature after being unintentionally left off the club's Europa League squad list.

Having been able to rest players during the closing stages against Twente, Schmidt could select the same team which started that fixture.

Ryan Thomas could come into the midfield if Schmidt wants to introduce fresh legs, although Marco van Ginkel is likely to remain among the replacements.

Ajax possible starting lineup:
Stekelenburg; Timber, Schuurs, Martinez, Blind; Alvarez, Klaassen, Gravenberch; Antony, Haller, Neres

PSV Eindhoven possible starting lineup:
Mvogo; Dumfries, Teze, Boscagli, Max; Sangare, Rosario; Junior, Ihattaren; Zahavi, Malen

SM words green background

We say: Ajax 3-1 PSV Eindhoven

Despite failing to show their best form in recent weeks, Ajax have still found a way to get wins on the board. We feel that it will be a similar story here as they look to boost their bid to achieve the treble by the end of the campaign.

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