Vink marvels at Arokodare’s Ajax impact

Former Ajax midfielder Marciano Vink has admitted he did not expect Nigeria striker Tolu Arokodare to make such an immediate impact at the Dutch club.

Arokodare joined Ajax from Wolverhampton Wanderers on a season-long loan and has quickly impressed since arriving in Amsterdam.

The 25-year-old has scored five goals and provided two assists in eight appearances for the Dutch giants this season, with his latest outing coming in Saturday’s 5-1 victory over Fortuna Sittard.

Vink, speaking on ESPN’s Dit, singled out Arokodare’s technical ability, particularly a first-half move which saw the striker control the ball with his chest before attempting a left-footed finish.

“That chance for Tolu, which he controlled on his chest and then shot wide with his left. He took it a bit too much on the outside of his foot this time, causing it to go wide,” Vink said.

“But that is really impressive, in tight space for such a big and strong guy.

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“It’s a good thing the ball didn’t go straight into the top corner, because then it would be the goal of the year. That whole move reveals so much footballing class.”

The former Netherlands international said Arokodare’s quick adaptation had surprised him, although he identified heading as an area the Nigerian could improve.

“I didn’t expect him to make such an immediate impact,” Vink said.

“Only the heading could be a bit better, but that move reveals a lot. He can really play football well for such a strong, big player.”

Arokodare returned to the Netherlands after spending last season at Wolves, having previously impressed during his time with Belgian club Genk.

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