Former Aston Villa midfielder praises Chuba Akpom for role in Ajax’s comeback

In an interview with ESPN in his role as an analyst, former Feyenoord and Aston Villa midfielder Karim El-Ahmadi was full of praise for the role Chuba Akpom played at the weekend. The Moroccan, who is now retired from football, said that Akpom brought plenty of energy to the Ajax team, something that makes him a valuable super-sub. El-Ahmadi also noted how, with the side 2-0 down to Sparta Rotterdam, all of their attacks during the comeback went through the English forward.

In January, Akpom almost left Ajax to return to England and join Nottingham Forest. However, the deadline day move failed to materialise, meaning Akpom remained in Amsterdam. Jordan Henderson provided an assist for the striker’s first goal, which came under 10 minutes after he was introduced off the bench. With time running down, Akpom turned provider, setting up Steven Bergwijn’s equaliser in the 88th minute.

In 18 Eredivisie games this season, Akpom has scored seven goals and provided one assist. He has only started four of these games since joining the side in the summer from Middlesbrough.