Super Eagles: Arokodare’s strength singled out as key condition for Ajax’s success

Former Ajax midfielder Hedwiges Maduro has backed Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare to make an impact in the Eredivisie, with the Nigerian striker's physical strength singled out as a major asset for the four-time UEFA Champions League winners, Soccernet.ng reports.

Arokodare joined Ajax on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers after a relatively poor spell for the team and the player, as the Old Gold were relegated to the EFL Championship.

After just three games, the 25-year-old's physical profile has already attracted attention, with his height, power and ability to compete giving Ajax a different outlet in attack away from Brazilian striker Marcos Leonardo or Danish forward Kasper Dolberg.

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How Tolu Arokodare can help Ajax

Maduro, who came through Ajax's academy and later worked as an assistant coach at the club, believes those qualities could prove particularly valuable in the Eredivisie.

Speaking on Football Talk, Maduro pointed to Arokodare's strength and his potential to provide Ajax with a focal point in attack.

“I think Tolu has something, in terms of power and strength. In the Eredivisie, I think he can be really of value,” the 41-year-old said in quotes revealed by Ajaxshowtime.

Maduro also explained how Arokodare's presence could complement the movement of Ajax's other attacking players.

“Leonardo needs space. If you face teams that completely sit deep, where are you going to make those running actions? Then you have more attention to Tolu as a point of play to drop the ball.”

The former Netherlands international's comments underline the tactical value Arokodare could offer beyond simply scoring goals.

Those parts of Arokodare's game have been evident in the three competitive games he's played for the record Dutch Champions, although he has yet to find the back of the net.

The former FC Köln striker came off the bench against PEC Zwolle and played a key role in the opening goal by laying the ball off for Jorthy Mokie, before Julian Brandt added the second.

While he'd love to be a starter to prove Wolverhampton Wanderers wrong, the lanky striker also believes in waiting for his chance.

“Of course you always want to play, but some things are bigger than an individual player,” the Super Eagles striker said in an interview with Ziggo.

“If I can help the team, I’ll do it,” he added.

Maduro's comments came after seeing the Nigerian in action during Ajax's Conference League qualifiers against Shelbourne. The game ended in a 2-2 draw, with the Dutch side progressing to the final round.

They'll play against Swiss side FC Sion next Thursday, to be played at Stade Tourbillon.