Ajax star left with blood pouring down face before returning to pitch in SWIMMING CAP during Europa League clash

AN AJAX star was left with blood pouring down his face before returning to the pitch in a SWIMMING CAP.

Defender Daniele Rugani, 30, lined up for their Dutch giants in their Europa League last-16 clash at Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday.

RexDaniele Rugani put on a swimming cap after taking a knock to the head[/caption] RexThe Ajax star was left with blood running down his face after a fierce collision[/caption] Rugani proved his dedication by playing on with the swimming cap stopping the bleedingRex

Ajax lost the first leg at home 2-1 and were desperate to make amends in Germany.

But they ended up shipping three goals in the first 67 minutes as travelling fans suffered a miserable evening.

However, Rugani gave them something to be proud about with a brave piece of play.

The Italian is on loan at Ajax from Juventus.

And he showed his dedication to the cause by taking a big knock to the head while organising the defence.

The five-time Serie A winner was left with blood pouring down onto his face.

But Rugani refused to be taken off in Ajax’s time of need.

Moving to the sideline, the centre-back left fans stunned as he chucked on a swimming cap.

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The headpiece slotted perfectly onto his scalp and immediately stopped any blood pouring from his cut.

Rugani was able to stay on the pitch but his presence proved to be futile.

Ajax did manage to pull a goal back in the 78th minute to make it 3-1 on the night.

But Mario Gotze netted moments later for his second goal of the game.