'Good choice' - Sean Steur tells Dutch media he really joined Newcastle United from Ajax
Sean Steur has opened up about his decision to leave Ajax and join Newcastle United.
Sean Steur believes he made the right decision by joining Newcastle United, despite facing criticism for leaving Ajax.
The 18-year-old midfielder made just 26 appearances for the Dutch giants before moving to St James’ Park this summer for £23million.
Despite his young age and limited senior experience, Steur has already made a strong impression on Tyneside and was singled out for praise by head coach Matthias Jaissle after the 2-1 win over Hull City in the Premier League on Saturday.
The Gazette has launched a WhatsApp NUFC channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates directly to your phone. Simply click this link to join our NUFC WhatsApp channel.
Sean Steur already feels at home at Newcastle United
While the Dutchman has faced criticism in his homeland for leaving Ajax, he insists he has no regrets about his decision and already feels “at home” in the North East of England.
"Fortunately, I am really enjoying myself,” Steur told ESPN. “I am happy. I can only look back on how everything has turned out with happiness. I feel very much at home there.
“The way football is experienced there is, of course, next level. I am learning a lot from that. I am also still developing. I can't last 90 minutes yet. So it still needs to get better."
Why Newcastle? “Based on a gut feeling,” Steur replied. “It is difficult to explain, but it is mainly the feeling and the conviction they give you."
It was reported earlier this year that Steur was close to signing a new deal at the Amsterdam club, however the midfielder admitted to having doubts over his role in the team and ultimately decided it was “best” to go elsewhere.
Steur said: "A tremendous amount changed at Ajax. Everyone could see that. I had some doubts about what my role would be. They opted for a lot of experience, which is fine. Ultimately, I think it was the best choice for me to go somewhere else.
“How did the conversations go? I'll keep that to myself. But it was always done in a respectful manner. I don't have much contact with him (Technical director Jordi Cruijff) anymore. I wish Ajax and him all the best. I am happy too, so I made a good choice."