Liverpool goalkeeper Vítězslav Jaroš says the Reds encouraged him to go out on loan again in the summer.
The Czech Republic international has regularly been out on loan since 2021. Liverpool let him join Ajax on another temporary deal in June, after he signed an extension.
De Telegraaf have published an interview with the 24-year-old where he talked about his decision to join Ajax.
Jaroš is a product of the Premier League side’s academy and has made two appearances for their first team. Liverpool have sanctioned several temporary moves so that he can continue his development.
The Liverpool owned player insists he still has ‘some steps to take’ in career.
“I’m 24-years-old, but I’ve moved around a lot and, partly due to several loan spells as a Liverpool goalkeeper, I’ve already played for eight clubs,” he said.
“The path to the top is simply different for goalkeepers than for outfield players. Especially in England, when you play for one of the biggest clubs in the world, you don’t get that chance when you’re 18 or 19. So, I felt I had to gain experience elsewhere, and the club agreed. It made me stronger and better.”
John Heitinga was Arne Slot’s assistant at Liverpool last season. He left Anfield to join Ajax in June, and this played a role in the goalkeeper’s decision to move to Amsterdam.
Last month, the Eredivisie side parted ways with Heitinga.
“I had a wonderful time with him at Liverpool and know what a good coach he is. Moreover, Ajax is an immensely large and globally renowned club. Because of John and the club’s history and stature, it was an easy decision to make,” Jaroš explained.
“I like John, he’s a nice guy, and I think everyone in the squad agrees with that, so it was sad to see him go. I don’t think now is the right time to contact him and I’ll give him some time. But I’ll definitely call him.”
Jaroš has kept four clean sheets and conceded 23 goals from 16 matches for Ajax.