Germany international and Ajax goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen has praised Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare for his energy, work rate and goalscoring contributions following his impressive start in Amsterdam.
The 25-year-old has quickly become an important attacking figure for Ajax since arriving from Wolverhampton Wanderers on a season-long loan, with an option to make the move permanent.
Arokodare continued his impressive goalscoring form on Saturday, scoring the decisive goal in Ajax’s 1-0 victory over AZ Alkmaar in the Eredivisie.
The Nigerian striker found the net in the ninth minute, rising above his marker to head home a cross from Abdellah Ouazane and secure all three points for the Amsterdam giants.
His latest effort took his tally to 10 goals in 15 appearances across all competitions for Ajax, further underlining his importance to the team.
Speaking to Calisport, Ter Stegen praised the forward’s contribution, insisting that his energy and commitment have been just as important as his goals.
“Tolu is special for us right now, not just because he scored, but for his energy. We need it and the coach needs it and he demands for it. I’m pleased with how things are going for him. He scores regularly and I think he deserves it. He’s a great striker. We’re happy to have him,” Ter Stegen said.
Arokodare rediscovers his scoring touch in Amsterdam
Arokodare joined Ajax after a difficult spell at Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he struggled to reproduce the form that made him one of the most exciting strikers in Belgian football during his time at KRC Genk.
The Nigerian had previously impressed at Genk, establishing himself as one of the Belgian Pro League’s leading goalscorers before earning a move to the Premier League.
However, his opportunities at Wolves proved limited, prompting the decision to move to the Netherlands in search of regular playing time.
The loan move to Ajax appears to have provided the platform he needed to rediscover his confidence and goalscoring instincts.
He has scored six goals in the Eredivisie and four in the UEFA Conference League, taking his overall tally to 10 goals in 15 appearances, alongside three assists.
His recent contributions include the winning goal in Ajax’s 2-1 victory over Sparta Rotterdam on 25 October and his decisive header against AZ Alkmaar.
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Arokodare becoming important to Ajax’s ambitions
Arokodare’s goals have arrived at an important period for Ajax as they look to strengthen their position in the Eredivisie and make progress in European competition.
His physical presence, aerial ability and willingness to lead the press have provided the team with an effective attacking option. Beyond his goalscoring record, Ter Stegen’s comments highlight the Nigerian’s work rate and energy, qualities that have made him valuable to the coaching staff.
The striker’s immediate impact has also strengthened the possibility of Ajax considering a permanent transfer when his loan agreement expires. For Arokodare, the priority will be maintaining his impressive form and establishing himself as one of the leading forwards in Dutch football.
With 10 goals already to his name, the former Genk striker is making a strong case for Ajax to consider turning his loan move from Wolves into a permanent deal.
