Defender Thimothee Atouba admits signing for Ajax was a 'bad decision' after failing to make an impact.
Shunned full-back regrets Amsterdam move
Out-of-favour Ajax defender Thimothee Atouba admits signing for the club was a 'bad decision' after failing to make an impact in Amsterdam.
The 29-year-old joined the Dutch giants in the summer of 2009 but made just two appearances before injuries and poor form saw him slip down the pecking order.
Atouba, who is out of contract next month, has seen his international prospects with Cameroon damaged by the lack of first-team action.
And the full-back, a former Tottenham and Hamburg player, is eager to get his career back on course over the summer.
"It was a bad decision to sign for Ajax," he said. "I have stood still for two years, including injuries.
"I have even lost my spot in the national team."
Fitness
Atouba linked up with former Spurs boss Martin Jol when he signed for the Godenzonen, but his fitness problems prompted the coach to explore other options at left-back.
"Physically I was at 60 per cent and 100% mentally," he added. "But I was going from one injury to the other. The trainer was not happy."
Even when he had overcome his injury struggles, Atouba says he was left confused by his continued omission from the team.
He said: "I was told that there were political reasons for this. Yes, political reasons.
"I did not understand what he meant. Still don't."
