'He's different' - Racing Genk captain weighs in on Arokodare and Onuachu comparisons

Racing Genk captain Bryan Heynen has weighed in on the comparisons between his teammate Tolu Arokodare and former Genk striker Paul Onuachu. 

Arokodare has been in fine form this season, scoring nine goals and establishing himself as one of the top strikers in the Belgian Pro League.

Onuachu, who played for Genk from 2019 to 2023, was a prolific goal-scorer for the club, netting 85 goals and providing 10 assists in 134 appearances. 

His impressive form earned him numerous individual accolades, including the Ebony Shoe, Pro League Player of the Year, and the Belgian Golden Shoe.

Arokodare, on the other hand, has had to work hard to win over the fans and prove himself as a capable replacement for Onuachu. 

However, Heynen believes that the comparisons between the two strikers are unfair. 

The skipper highlighted the differences in age and experience between Arokodare and Onuachu, making it unfair to compare the two strikers at this stage in their careers.

Heynen also praised Arokodare's attitude and work ethic, which have improved significantly in recent months, suggesting that Arokodare has taken his game to the next level, thanks to his hard work and dedication.

"The criticism Tolu received in the beginning was accompanied by the shoes he had to fill," Heynen said in an interview with Het Laatste Nieuws as quoted by VoetbalKrant.

"You have to remember that Paul was also 28 when he left. Tolu was 22 when he arrived and has just turned 24. That is a big difference. He still has time to grow to that level."

"I think he realizes that it doesn't just have to happen on the weekend, but also during the week. Both in training and in the gym. The new staff has played a big role in that."

The Genk captain also acknowledged that Arokodare is a different type of striker compared to Onuachu. However, Heynen also believes that Arokodare's speed and agility set him apart from Onuachu.

"He is different from Onuachu and Samatta. Because of his height, the comparison with Paul is most valid."  

"You can play the same game with them in principle, but there are too many differences. Tolu is faster. Paul was perhaps a bit stronger with his back to goal, although he has also made progress there," Heynen concluded.

On the international stage, it hasn't exactly been rosy for both strikers as Arokodare is still hoping for his first call-up to the Super Eagles, despite being in decent form for his club. 

Onuachu on the other hand, hasn't been called up to the national team since the World Cup qualifiers in June.

Ejim Kaycee

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