Ajax appoint Heitinga as manager until end of the season

Ajax have appointed John Heitinga as manager until the end of the season.

Heitinga, 39, was put in charge as temporary boss alongside Michael Reiziger following Alfred Schreuder's sacking last week.

The former Everton defender was in the dugout for Sunday's 4-1 win at Excelsior, having previously led Ajax's Under-23s side.

Club CEO Edwin van der Sar said: "We are convinced this is the right solution.

"John is on a clear and steady path, which has resulted in him developing himself very well over the years.

"We feel confident about John's qualities and the vision he has.

"The team now has to win, work on their confidence and develop themselves further. We still have a lot to fight for this season."

Ajax lie fourth in the Eredivisie table ahead of a trip to Cambuur on Sunday.

The Dutch champions also have a Europa League knockout round play-off tie against Union Berlin to come this month, along with a KNVB last-16 clash with FC Twente.