Chuba Akpom emerged as the hero of the night, netting a remarkable hat-trick in Ajax Amsterdam's commanding 4-1 away victory over Polish side Jagiellonia Białystok in the first leg of their Europa League playoffs at the Białystok City Stadium on Thursday.
The 28-year-old has repeatedly been reduced to a figure of ridicule since his arrival in the Dutch capital, despite an impressive debut season.
In 31 appearances for Ajax across both the Eredivisie and UEFA Europa League, Akpom recorded 14 goals and three assists. Despite these contributions, some within the club’s fanbase have questioned whether he truly merits the honour of wearing the club’s iconic red and white colours.
Late last month, Ajax deemed Akpom surplus to requirements, listing him among seven players set to depart the club.
After delivering a standout hat-trick in what he considers his best performance in an Ajax shirt, Akpom expressed heartfelt gratitude to his coach for the trust and support that fuelled his success on the pitch.
Akpom reflects on career-best performance and coach's support
In the aftermath of his heroics on Thursday, Akpom described the game as his best performance in an Ajax shirt and was effusive in his praise for manager Francesco Farioli.
“It’s amazing, it’s amazing. I thank God, I thank my teammates, all the staff, and all the fans for the support. Probably my best game in the Ajax shirt today, so I am happy,” he told the club's official website.
Akpom also shared his thoughts on scoring and the support he’s received:
“Of course, you know, scoring is something I pride myself on; it is something I love to do. And if it’s not happening, it gets frustrating, but I am a very positive and persistent person, so it doesn’t matter how many chances I miss, I keep going. Yeah, so I want to say thank you to the coach for the trust, and I will just continue to help the team as much as I can.”
Prior to Thursday’s Europa League clash against Jagiellonia, the Nigerian forward had not scored in any of the six matches he had played this season.