'I also try to play as a second striker' - Akpom likens himself to Arsenal and Ajax legend Bergkamp

Chuba Akpom believes that there are similarities between his game and that of Arsenal and Ajax Amsterdam legend Dennis Bergkamp. 

Retired Netherlands international Bergkamp was  originally a wide midfielder, was moved to the center forward role and then as a second striker. 

Just like the Dutchman, Akpom offers versatility as he is capable of playing as a center forward, support striker, attacking midfielder and a makeshift winger. 

On his starting debut for Ajax Amsterdam in their Eredivisie clash against Twente Enschede on Sunday, Akpom was deployed as a right winger in a 4-3-3 formation, which  should be his least preferred position in a front three. 

Akpom has compared himself to Bergkamp who is widely regarded as one of the greatest Arsenal players in history, having won the Premier League three times and the FA Cup on four occasions, and he was in the Arsenal side that reached the finals of the Champions League and UEFA Cup. 

In quotes relayed by Voetbal Primeur, Akpom said: "A fantastic player, who of course also played at Ajax. He could play as a false nine and connect the game.

"He was also very physical. Everyone talks about his technique, but he was merciless. 

"I also have that a bit, because I also try to play as a second striker. I also have the technical and physical qualities."

Akpom had a breakout 2022-2023 season, scoring 29 goals in 42 games across all competitions which earned him a summer move to one of the traditional European clubs, Ajax. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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