Ajax head coach Francesco Farioli is very satisfied with the dedication of Nigerian forwards Chuba Akpom, Soccernet.ng reports.
Akpom has received praise from his Ajax boss, Francesco Farioli, after showcasing good conduct and desirable versatility despite his limited playing time since his move to the Johan Cruijff Arena in August last year.
Speaking to ESPN shortly after their win against Almere City on Sunday, the Italian tactician had this to say:
“I have to thank Akpom from the bottom of my heart. He gives everything for the team, in a position he is not used to. He does not complain and he is always there for the team. What more could I ask for?.”
Since joining the Dutch giants, Akpom has made 63 appearances, mostly from the substitute’s bench. That’s especially true since Wout Weghorst was signed in the summer, leaving Akpom as a third-choice option behind Weghorst and Brian Brobbey.
However, this season, the former Arsenal man has been given an improved role in the squad, often deployed on the wings, because, according to Farioli, the team has an unbalanced selection upfront.
Farioli prefers Weghorst and Brobbey as central attackers, and he is very pleased with the Englishman playing as a winger for his team.
Chuba Akpom’s impressive performances: ‘What more could I ask for?’, his coach asks
During the latest home game against Almere City, which ended 3-0 in Ajax’s favour, Akpom was deployed as a right winger, with Weghorst as the striker. This showcases his admirable versatility because, in recent weeks, the Englishman mainly played on the left flank due to Mika Godts’ absence.
At the beginning of the season, the 35-year-old coach spoke to his strikers and clearly expressed what he expects from them.
“I asked them to sacrifice things. I try to treat my strikers with respect and give them a lot of attention, because I know they will help us and are crucial to our process.”
So far, Akpom has scored five goals and registered two assists in 24 appearances across all competitions.