VERY few people would associate Ajax with route-one football - instead the Dutch giants are synonymous with patient build-ups, tactically breaking down the opposition.

But striker David Neres adopted the favoured approach of many a traditional English manager - in order to win over his model girlfriend.

1 David Neres took a direct (message) approach as he looked to land a date with German model Kira Winonca Credit: Getty - Contributor

The Brazilian forward, 22, slid into Kira Winona's DMs - quite literally - and it worked an absolute treat.

It turned out to be easier than he expected to Win-ova the German beauty as he landed a date and took his chance.

And she proved crucial, helping with his transition from Sao Paulo to Amsterdam in 2017 and then as he struggled under Erik ten Hag early last season.

In an interview with Het Parool, Neres said: "German women apparently love Brazilian men.

"I found her on Instagram and sent a private message: I am David Neres, come to me. That was enough for a date.

"I was sad and not happy [at Ajax], but I kept working hard and got my place back."

And the pair have not looked back ever since, regularly sharing snaps together on Instagram.

Winona is also a regular at the Johan Cruyff Arena.

But the model - who is based in Amsterdam and London - also spends some of her time as a personal trainer.

While Neres is clearly having no problem scoring off the pitch, he is not doing too badly on it, either.

He has six goals in 12 appearances in the Eredivisie so far this term.