Heits and lows as John already faces tough questions on Ajax future

EX-LIVERPOOL coach John Heitinga faced a fierce line of questioning after Ajax were thrashed 4-0 by Marseille in the Champions League, with members of the assembled Dutch media asking if he thought he should resign before he was sacked.

- By MARK JONES

Former Everton defender Heitinga was appointed as an assistant coach to Arne Slot following his compatriot’s arrival at Anfield in the summer of 2024 and he was a popular member of the backroom staff during his year at the club.

Heitinga even served as the de facto manager on the touchline in Premier League games at home to Newcastle and Southampton in February and March as Slot and assistant Sipke Hulshoff served bans for red cards they received against Everton after the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.

However, since returning to former club Ajax in the summer things haven't gone to plan for Heitinga.