Why I snubbed Premier League football to play for Ajax- Nigeria striker Akpom

Akpom just completed his transfer to Ajax for Middlesbrough, and he would be expected to play an important role

Nigeria striker Chuba Akpom has revealed that he decided to join Dutch Eredivisie giants because of their rich history and playing philosophy, Soccernet reports.

Akpom has been the object of numerous transfer talks this summer following an impressive campaign that saw him score 28 goals in 40 appearances for Middlesbrough in the English Championship.

The 27-year-old attacker was the best player in the league last season, and his brilliance attracted interest from some bigger clubs, especially after Boro failed to secure promotion to the Premier League.

Lille, Lens, Everton, and Sheffield United were linked with the Arsenal Academy product, but they could not strike a deal. But with just one year on his former deal, Middlesbrough had to sell because Akpom refused to sign an extension.

Dutch giants Ajax entered the mix to sign the former PAOK man last week, and they wasted little time in completing the deal.

The Godenzonen unveiled Akpom on Wednesday, and he was handed the iconic number 10 jersey, which some football greats have used.

The Nigerian striker has now revealed the reason he moved to the Eredivisie despite interest from the Premier League and Ligue 1.

“When I hung up[the first time I spoke to Ajax], I said to my manager: ‘Stop talking to other clubs. I want to go to Ajax,” Akpom told Ajax Life.

“Sven[Ajax football director] didn’t have to sell the club to me. He told me about the projects, the philosophy and how the coach wants me to play. That fits well with the way I like football. It was an easy decision.

“The name itself says enough: AFC Ajax. When you put on this shirt, you need to know what it stands for.

“The history and the success that the club has had in the Netherlands and Europe. I respect that. I am ready to help Ajax further.”

Akpom’s jersey number indicates how important he is to the club. Ajax lost the Eredivisie title last season, but they would be looking to return to the summit this season.