[Fillipo Simone]

29/10/2007 16:45


Emotional Stam Invokes Lack Of Commitment

Less motivation and physical problems were the reasons behind Jaap Stam’s shocking announcement earlier today that he’s giving up football altogether at the age of 35, eight months before his contract with Ajax ran out.

The news took the Netherlands – and especially the Ajax faithful – by storm this morning, but the fact that a press interview was set up as early as the afternoon suggests that Stam had already made up his mind. 

Nine TV cameras and dozens of journalists packed the club’s press room for the emotional occasion. “Throughout my career I was always committed to the game. I’m not someone who can live with giving 50 percent. But I found out lately that during games I was busier with myself rather than the opponents.” said  the former PSV Eindhoven, Manchester United, Lazio and Milan centre back. 

“That is not good. I decided to stop. I hope the Ajax supporters can understand my decision. This club is to me the most beautiful club in the country.”

“Disappointed in myself”

Stam, the most expensive defender in football history and the most expensive Dutch player of all time when United secured his services for 17 million euros in the summer of 1998, revealed that he’d thought about calling it quits at the end of last season. “General director Maarten Fontein and technical director Martin Van Geel convinced me to stay on. But I can’t go on anymore. I’m disappointed in myself, but that’s the way it has to be.” 

After an illustrious career that saw him win no less than 15 pieces of silverware in three different countries, including a FIFA Club World Cup and an UEFA Champions League, as well as several personal awards, ‘The rock of Kampen’ argued that “There were many footballers more talented than me, but my commitment boosted my career”. 

“I wanted to win the Eredivisie title with Ajax. Last year we only lost it for a point (actually, on goal difference), but it wasn’t meant to be.” added Stam, who lost his father only last week.

Regrettable decision

Ajax technical director Van Geel said: “Jaap’s decision is regrettable, but it comes as no surprise. We’d seen it coming. He’s a great person and a great player. He was an example to everyone. We accept his decision, but it’s really a shame.” Stam has not yet decided on how he’ll bid the Ajax fans farewell. “I want to thank them in an appropriate manner. They’ve supported me from the very first minute I arrived.” However, his testimonial has already been fixed for July 25 at FC Zwolle’s “Oosterenkstadion”, when Ajax will face a team consisted of Stam’s former teammates.

(IMG:http://wesleysneijder.punt.nl/upload/stam.jpg)

Vaarwel Jaap! (IMG:http://cyrus.medialayer.net/~m1ke/milanfan.com/forums/style_emoticons/default/devilsmiley.gif) (IMG:http://cyrus.medialayer.net/~m1ke/milanfan.com/forums/style_emoticons/default/devilsmiley.gif)

[nuh]

poor guy i miss him soo much (IMG:http://cyrus.medialayer.net/~m1ke/milanfan.com/forums/style_emoticons/default/cry.gif)