Nigerian striker Fred Friday is poised to lead AZ Alkmaar's attack in the 2018-2019 campaign going by his imperious display in pre-season games.

The former Lillestrøm youngster netted the winner after 60 minutes in his side's 1-0 win over Zulte Waregem on Sunday afternoon, taking his tally in preparation games to six goals in seven matches.

Friday was loaned out to Sparta Rotterdam in the second half of last season and he didn't do badly at the relegated Eredivisie club, with 4 goals (3 assists) in 18 appearances.

''I have been scoring because I have been working hard in training and games, my target for the new season is to score more goals, '' said Fred Friday to allnigeriasoccer.com.

Asked about a possible departure from AZ amid speculation linking him with a move to NAC Breda, he replied : ''Nothing is concrete, I am going to stay in AZ.''

Meanwhile, Zulte Waregem coach Francky Dury did not run the rule over Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen as the trialist was not named in the 20-man squad for the friendly against AZ.

Osimhen, 19, is training with Zulte Waregem with a view to a transfer in the summer transfer window.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel