Tolu Arokodare says he has moved on from his difficult spell at Wolverhampton Wanderers and is focused on improving at Ajax after scoring his first goal for the Dutch giants in their 4-2 UEFA Conference League play-off win over FC Sion on Thursday, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The Nigerian striker came off the bench in the 72nd minute and needed just 43 seconds to make an impact, rising above the Sion defence to head Ajax ahead after the hosts had fought back to level.
Arokodare then turned provider in the 87th minute, setting up Davy Klaassen for Ajax’s fourth goal to complete an impressive cameo in Switzerland.
Reflecting on his start to life at Ajax, the 25-year-old said he was determined to learn from his past without allowing his previous struggles to affect his new chapter.
“I don’t think there’s a real reason or there’s a real excuse. I think it’s part of the game,” Arokodare told ESPN.
“As players, we have seasons and moments like this in our careers, and it’s something to learn from, that I’ve moved on from, and I’m focused on the new season.
“I’ve been preparing well with the Ajax team and the players, and I’m focused on this season.’’
I’m focused on getting better, focused on better things for myself. Focused on not making the same mistakes I did. That’s all I’m focused on. Not focused on last season.”
The striker has made a promising start since joining Ajax from Wolves on a season-long loan, registering one goal and two assists in four appearances despite playing only limited minutes.
He made his debut against PEC Zwolle on August 9 and came off the bench to assist Jorthy Mokio in a 2-0 win before featuring as a substitute against Shelbourne and SC Heerenveen.
His latest display earned praise from Ajax coach Míchel Sánchez, who highlighted the Nigerian’s energy, work rate and ability to make an immediate impact.
“Tolu brought a lot of energy when he came on. He works hard, he scores, and he helps us,” Míchel told Ajax Life, per Goal.
The Spaniard also praised Arokodare’s character, saying, “He has a good character. I think he is a nice boy. I hope he keeps helping us in this way.”
Ajax will take a 4-2 advantage into next week’s second leg at the Johan Cruijff Arena as they bid to secure their place in the Conference League league phase.
For Arokodare, his latest impact could strengthen his case for a starting role as Ajax continue their busy schedule.
