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Ajax show belief in Babel

Thursday, July 7, 2005

AFC Ajax have handed the 18-year-old Dutch international striker Ryan Babel an improved contract until 2008.

Swift rise
The 18-year-old youth product, who made his first-team debut in February 2004, scored nine goals last season in helping Ajax to second place and a 2005/06 UEFA Champions League third qualifying round berth. He also scored on his Netherlands debut in a FIFA World Cup tie in Romania in March, and was part of the Under-20 team that reached the FIFA World Youth Championship quarter-finals on home soil last month, claiming two goals.

Year-long extension
His new deal runs for 12 months longer than his previous arrangement and has improved conditions. Ajax will find out their first Champions League opponents when the draw is made on 29 July.

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