Former PSV defender Jan Wuytens, who coached Tolu Arokodare at Genk, says the Nigerian striker turns into a genuine “killer” once a team plays to his physical strengths.
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Former PSV defender Jan Wuytens has offered high praise for Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare, explaining why the Nigerian forward has hit top form at Ajax following a difficult spell in the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Unlocking Arokodare’s Unique Profile
Speaking to ajax1 about his time working with Arokodare at Genk, Wuytens said the 25 year old has a special, unusual profile as a player. He explained that Arokodare initially struggled to adapt to the intense, high pressing style typical of Ajax influenced football when he first arrived in Belgium, finding the constant sprinting demanded by that system tough going.
Finding His Groove Through Crosses
According to Wuytens, the turning point came in Arokodare’s second season, once the coaching staff began building training and tactics around his physical power, focusing on crosses and balls delivered into the box. He said that when played that way, Arokodare becomes practically unplayable in the air, combining strong aerial ability with surprising pace. He added that Arokodare’s hold up play is so effective that it allows teammates to join attacks around him.
A Player Who Needs The Right Structure
Wuytens described Arokodare as a player with a kind of magic capable of winning clubs over, but stressed that coaches need to find and consistently hit the right approach with him to get the best out of him. He said, “If you do that, you will get a killer on the field,” crediting the striker’s professionalism and willingness to adapt as key factors in his development.
