Ajax coach explains why goalscorer Akpom was picked over ex-Man Utd striker in 5-0 win v Fortuna Sittard

Ajax Amsterdam coach Francesco Farioli has defended his decision to pick Chuba Akpom over former Manchester United striker Wout Weghorst in the starting lineup for the Eredivisie clash against Fortuna Sittard on Wednesday night.

The Nigerian was not supposed to start against Fortuna Sittard but was brought into the starting eleven as a replacement for first choice striker Brian Brobbey who suffered a training ground injury in the last workout on Tuesday.

Akpom repaid the manager's faith by registering two goal involvements, teeing up Bertrand Traoré in the 24th minute before closing the scoring with three minutes left on the clock.

Netherlands international Weghorst, a summer signing from Burnley, came off the bench in the 66th minute for his debut as an Ajax Amsterdam player.

Ajax's other scorers in the commanding 5-0 win were Kenneth Taylor, Youri Baas and Devyne Rensch, a victory that saw them climb to seventh in the standings with two games in hand. 

Francesco Farioli explained that Akpom earned the nod over Weghorst due to his work ethic since preparations for the new season began.

In quotes relayed by Ajax Showtime, he said: "Wout is a fantastic player and he can - also tonight (Wednesday evening, ed.) - make a big contribution.

"Akpom has been with us for three months, he has done a great job so far. We have to be grateful for what he has given the team.

With his goal and assist against  Fortuna Sittard, Akpom has now registered five goal involvements in nine matches so far this season.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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