Tolu Arokodare prioritises Ajax needs over starting role

Ajax striker Tolu Arokodare has stated he is willing to put the requirements of the club above his own desire to be in the starting lineup. The Super Eagles forward made his first competitive appearance for the Dutch side as a substitute during their 2-0 Eredivisie win against PEC Zwolle on Sunday.

During his time on the pitch, Arokodare provided the assist for the opening goal to help Ajax secure three points in a difficult away fixture. The 25-year-old noted that while the team struggled to find their rhythm early in the match, they eventually achieved the desired result with two goals and a victory.

Competition for the striker position is currently high at the Amsterdam club. Kasper Dolberg has featured in the opening league game, leaving Arokodare and Marcos Leonardo to wait for opportunities from the bench. While the Nigerian international admitted his ambition is to start every game, he believes tactical decisions and physical conditions must take precedence over individual wishes.

Arokodare, who joined Ajax on a season-long loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers in July, said he will do his best whether he is called upon to start or to come off the bench. He expressed a desire to score goals and win matches, regardless of his specific role in the squad.

The striker is part of a rebuilding project at Ajax following a fifth-place finish in the Eredivisie last season. He mentioned that technical director Jordi Cruijff outlined the club's vision to him before his transfer, and he is now focused on chasing trophies. Arokodare stated his goal is to see the club become champions and win every competition they enter.

Ajax will continue their campaign in both the Eredivisie and the UEFA Conference League. Following a 3-1 win in the first leg of their third qualifying-round tie, they are set to face Shelbourne in the second leg this Thursday.