“He would return to England in a year”- Veteran England coach advises Maurice Steijn on best position for Akpom at Ajax

The Nigerian striker just joined Ajax last week, and he would be expected to play an important role in their season

Former Middlesbrough manager Neil Warnock has warned Maurice Steijn that playing Chuba Akpom as a striker would be detrimental for the Nigerian, Soccernet reports.

Akpom joined Ajax from Middlesbrough last week in a deal worth €14million. The 27-year-old Nigerian midfielder had a great campaign with Boro last season, registering 28 goals in 40 appearances.

However, before last season, Akpom was more it a peripheral figure. The Arsenal Academy graduate, who was often played as a striker, had never scored more than ten goals in a single season.

However, Michael Carrick’s decision to play Akpom in a free role allowed him to flourish. Following Akpom’s transfer to Ajax, there has been talk about his likely position at the club, as he has been handed their iconic number 10 jersey.

He could feature as a striker as their top hitman Brian Brobbey has not exactly inspired. However, he has not inspired much confidence. Former Middlesbrough boss Warnock has warned that playing Akpom as the main striker could be detrimental.

“I never thought about playing Akpom in the hole,” Warnock said per Daily Mail.

“He can’t play up front. I hope Ajax haven’t bought him to play up front because he’ll be back in England or somewhere else next year.”

Akpom could not play for Ajax over the weekend because he failed to get his work permit. However, he could play this week against Ludogorets in the Europa League qualifiers.

This post was last modified on August 21, 2023 10:32 am

Kelvin Omachonu

Kelvin Omachonu is a writer with many years of experience covering sports events in Nigeria and abroad. He is fueled by his love for the job, and is dedicated to delivering captivating stories.

Share
Published by
Kelvin Omachonu

Recent Posts

“I’ve been waiting since 2019” – Ex-Arsenal star declares readiness to play for Super Eagles

Nigerian forward Chuba Akpom has stated that he is still committed to playing for Nigeria… Read More

38 minutes ago

“Focus 100% on Bayer Leverkusen” – Nigeria’s Victor Boniface shrugs off failed Al Nassr move

Nigeria international forward Victor Boniface insists he remains committed to Bayer Leverkusen despite his failed… Read More

2 hours ago

Kelechi Iheanacho: Will Sevilla get rid of struggling Super Eagles star before transfer deadline?

Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho is in for a rapid rollercoaster ride for the next… Read More

2 hours ago

Leeds United pull plug on deal for Super Eagles striker

Three-time English Premier League Champions, Leeds United, have decided against signing Super Eagles and Sevilla… Read More

3 hours ago

Nigeria’s Osayi-Samuel lands in Mourinho’s black book as Fenerbahce boss eyes Bayern Munich star

Bright Osayi-Samuel’s future at Fenerbahce appears all but over as the Nigerian right-back is set… Read More

4 hours ago

Not Everton: Leicester City’s Ndidi to return from injury for crunch FA Cup tie

Leicester City head coach, Ruud Van Nistelrooy, has confirmed Super Eagles midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, is… Read More

5 hours ago