'I don't focus on rumours' - Akpom comments on his Ajax future after hat-trick in Europa League playoff

Chuba Akpom has commented on his future at Ajax Amsterdam after scoring a hat-trick in their UEFA Europa League play-off tie against Jagiellonia Białystok at the Białystok Municipal Stadium on Thursday night. 

Ajax Amsterdam manager, Francesco Farioli, trusted the Hale End Academy product to lead the line against the Polish side, and he repaid the faith remarkably.

He restored parity for the Eredivisie side four minutes after Jagiellonia Białystok took the lead and went on to score two more to put them in a comfortable position ahead of the return fixture at the Johan Cruyff Arena next week.

Akpom played second fiddle to Brian Brobbey for the Lion's share of the last campaign though the constant change of managers at the club could have also hindered his progress.

Despite his struggles, he was still able to manage 15 goals across all competitions last season and also contributed three assists.

Ajax are reportedly open to selling him and the 28-year-old isn't without suitors.

The former Middlesborough forward has been linked with Nottingham Forest  as reported exclusively by allnigeriasoccer.com.

Speaking to Ziggo Sport via Ajax Life after his heroics against Jagiellonia Białystok, the England-born forward said he isn't distracted by reports linking him with an exit from Ajax.

 "I don't focus on rumours. I just give one hundred percent for Ajax. I did that now too. I block out all distractions."

"I try not to listen to it. I love working under this coach. I feel happy. I appreciate that Farioli has confidence in me. I am grateful and happy that I can wear the Ajax shirt. Who wouldn't be?"

He has also caught the interest of VfB Stuttgart, but it will be difficult for the Dutch giants to release him if he stays consistent with his performances.

Abdulkareem Abdulhamid

Photo Credit: ajax.nl

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