Nigerian forward Chuba Akpom has admitted adapting to a new position at Ajax has been one of the biggest challenges of his career after being deployed on the wing instead of his preferred central striking role.
The 29-year-old has featured mainly on the left flank for the Dutch giants this season, a significant change from the number nine position where he built his reputation. Softfootball understands Akpom discussed the adjustment during an interview with Ajax Showtime, acknowledging that the transition has not been easy.
Speaking about the challenge, Akpom said:
It has been difficult. But I try to adapt. It is not natural for me to play on the side. I do my job for the team and I always try to give one hundred percent, but it has been difficult to adapt to that.
The former Arsenal academy graduate explained that playing out wide requires a completely different approach from operating through the middle.
The most difficult thing is that I am used to being in the centre. I am a box player. That’s where I want to be, score goals and influence games. That is my natural game,
he added.
