Photo Credit: Ajax / Punch Newspapers
Arokodare Eyes Impact After Brace Powers Ajax To Conference League
Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare says his focus is on making a meaningful impact at Ajax after marking his first start for the club with a brace in their thrilling 5-3 victory over FC Sion on Thursday.

The 25-year-old, who joined the Dutch giants on loan this summer from Wolverhampton Wanderers, was handed his first start by coach Míchel Sánchez and delivered with two crucial goals.

When asked why he was selected to start, Arokodare kept it simple: “The reason was that the coach decided I would start.”

The Super Eagles forward believes rotation is part of the plan in Ajax’s attack, which also features Kasper and Leonardo.

“I think it was my turn. You have seen that there is a kind of rotation with Kasper and Leo, so maybe this weekend or next weekend it will be Kasper or Leonardo again. The coach decides,” he said.

Despite his goalscoring heroics, Arokodare insists team success comes first.

“I try to help the team and make an impact in every way I can, whether I play or not, whether I start or not. In the end, it is simple: if the team win, we all win. That is what matters,” he added.

His performance drew praise from former Netherlands star Rafael van der Vaart, who was on punditry duty for Ziggo Sport. Van der Vaart said Arokodare is proving to be more than a bench option.

“Everything is going against his competitor Leonardo, and he just swings at the ball and scores,” Van der Vaart said, adding, “I feel like he doesn’t lose any aerial duels either. Great impression.”

Arokodare scored his first in first-half stoppage time and doubled his tally in the 51st minute before being taken off just after the hour mark to a standing ovation.

Ajax won the tie 5-3 on the night and progressed 9-5 on aggregate to the UEFA Conference League league phase. The brace takes Arokodare’s tally to three goals and two assists in five appearances in all competitions since his arrival.
Source: Punch Newspapers