Dutch football team seeks alternative to Amsterdam ArenA, artificial turf

By Janene Pieters on January 27, 2016 - 13:35
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The artificial turf in the Amsterdam ArenA is raising concerns among football players. Artificial turf is often harder and comes with a greater risk of injury. Dutch football association KNVB is looking at "other options" for the new qualifying period, Het Parool reports.

During Tuesday's match between Ajax and Heracles Almelo at the ArenA, it once again became obvious that the slippery artificial turf makes playing football more difficult. Following the match Heracles captain Mark-Jan Fledderus complained about the conditions on the turf. "The field looks very good, but the top layer is very smooth and slippery. You have very little grip, that is a shame for football." he said to VI.

In response the KNVB suggested that Oranje matches may well be moved to another stadium. Ziggo Sport Host Jack van Gelder got the football association involved on Twitter.

"Is there no one at the KNVB that is going to ban international matches in the ArenA? It is and remains a slide. What and insult to the Kuip", Van Gelder tweeted. The KNVB was quick to respond. "Not ban, but we are looking at other option for the new qualifying period."

In December last year the KNVB already indicated that Oranje may be playing home games not only in the ArenA, but also in De Kuip in Rotterdam and the Philips Stadium in Eindhoven from next summer until the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

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