Akpom braces for new Ajax role

Ajax striker Chuba Akpom has expressed his readiness to play in any forward position for the Dutch giants. He recently started on the right side of their front three against FC Twente in his debut for the club.

Ajax suffered a 3-1 defeat to Twente in that match, marking their first loss of the season and continued struggles in the league with just one win in four matches.

Akpom, after the game, likened his playing style to that of former Arsenal player Dennis Bergkamp, suggesting he could also fit in as a second striker.

He said, “A fantastic player, who of course also played at Ajax. He could play as a false nine and connect the game… He was also very physical. Everyone talks about his technique, but he was merciless. I also have that a bit because I try to play as a second striker. I also have the technical and physical qualities.”

Bergkamp, a retired Netherlands international, initially played as a wide midfielder before transitioning to the centre-forward role and then as a second striker.

Ajax’s director of football, Sven Mislintat, also noted Akpom’s versatility upon his signing, suggesting the Nigerian could be deployed in various roles.

If given the opportunity to start as the central forward, Akpom will be in competition with 21-year-old Dutch forward Brian Brobbey, who has started all their games this season.

Akpom had been the main striker for Middlesbrough in the Championship last season, scoring 29 goals in 42 games across all competitions. This performance earned him the Best Player award in the English second-tier and led to his summer move to Ajax.

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