Ajax manager John Van ‘t Schip says Aston Villa are the ‘strongest’ side remaining in the Europe Conference League after learning their last 16 fate

Ajax have been drawn against Aston Villa in the Europa Conference League last 16 after scraping past Bodø/Glimt in the playoff phase on Thursday night. Manager John Van’t Schip made his feelings known after Friday’s draw, saying Unai Emery’s side are the “strongest” opponents in this years tournament.

According to Voetbal International, Van ‘t Schip said: “Of course, there are always clubs that are considered strong and those that might be seen as slightly weaker. Aston Villa I think are the strongest. They play in the Premier League, they’re currently fourth and going for Champions League football.”

Van ‘t Schip also had some words of praise for Villa boss Unai Emery. “With Emery, they have an experienced coach who knows what it takes to win prizes in Europe” the Dutchman said. Emery won the Europa League three times with Sevilla and later won the tournament with Villareal. “It will be a very tough game.” The first-leg ties are set to take place on Thursday the 7th of March and the second-leg matches in the round of 16 are expected to take place on the 14th.