'Not relevant to you, but priceless to me' - Ajax coach hails Akpom for incredible work ethic 

Speaking at a press conference before his side's Europa League third qualifying round, second leg clash against Panathinaikos, Ajax Amsterdam manager Francesco Farioli praised Chuba Akpom for his incredible work ethic.

Francesco Farioli continues to believe in the Super Eagles hopeful despite firing blanks in his first four starts of the new season.

Ajax Amsterdam are best known for their attacking philosophy but have shown defensive solidity under the Italian football tactician, keeping an impressive three clean sheets in four games while conceding only once. 

Farioli believes that much of the team's performance in defence can be attributed to the work put in by the forwards, including Chuba Akpom.

The Hale End Academy graduate has gotten the nod over Brian Brobbey in all the games played by Ajax this term because the Netherlands international missed most part of the pre-season preparations due to his involvement in the 2024 European Championship. 

Farioli has spoken highly of Akpom, commending him for his work without the ball. 

In quotes relayed by Ajax Showtime, he stated: "We need players with his (Berghuis) character and personality to be an example on the pitch. 

"The fact that we concede less is thanks to the last line, but also to the attackers who sacrifice themselves. 

"That also applies to Chuba: the work he does for the team is incredible. That is something that is not relevant to you (to a reporter), but for me it is priceless."

Teams in Germany and England are believed to be monitoring the situation of Akpom, who is under contract with Ajax until June 30, 2028.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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