Former Ajax star Hakim Ziyech has struggled at Chelsea (Picture: Getty)

Ajax boss Alfred Schreuder has praised ‘great player’ Hakim Ziyech but explained why the Chelsea winger will not be returning to the Dutch club in January.

Ziyech established himself as one of Ajax’s most important players during his four-year spell in Holland and helped the club win the Eredivisie title and reach the Europa League final.

As a result, much was expected of the Morocco international when he completed a £33m move to Stamford Bridge in 2020.

Despite showing glimpses of his potential at Chelsea, Ziyech has largely flattered to deceive in west London and is now being linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge.

Ajax have been named as a potential suitor for Ziyech, 29, but head coach Schreuder has distanced the club from a January move.

Asked if there could be a reunion between Ajax and Ziyech, Schreuder said: ‘No, I do not think so. I think we are well stocked up front.

‘Everyone knows that Hakim is a great player, but he also comes with a price tag. I don’t think that’s our priority at the moment.’

Alfred Schreuder does not expect Ziyech to return to Ajax (Picture: Getty)

Despite his struggles at Chelsea, Ziyech impressed at the Qatar World Cup, helping Morocco become the first African nation to reach the semi-finals.

It was reported earlier this week that Ziyech was one of three players Chelsea had offered in their deal to sign World Cup winner Enzo Fernandez from Benfica.

Speaking last month, Chelsea boss Graham Potter urged Ziyech to stay patient as he looks to revive his Stamford Bridge career.

‘He’s been a little bit away from the first XI but he’s been involved in the games,’ Potter said. ‘He came on in the first game as a sub.

‘We know his qualities, we like him as a player, he plays in between the lines ,has fantastic qualities which we saw at the World Cup.

‘We can speak a lot but the chances are there are always good players who aren’t in the starting XI you have to be patient.

‘I’m delighted for him, I kept in touch with him over the World Cup. I’m delighted for him that he got the game time and helped his team. He’s a good guy and he’s got quality.’

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‘Everyone knows that Hakim is a great player.’