Nigeria Players Abroad
Steven Defour disagrees with Genk’s treatment of Tolu Arokodare, backs Striker for big move
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
Former Burnley midfielder and current analyst, Steven Defour, has questioned KRC Genk’s handling of Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare, who has been relegated to a bench role this season despite finishing as the club’s top scorer last term.
Arokodare came on as a substitute in Genk’s first Jupiler Pro League win of the season — a hard-fought 2-1 victory away to OH Leuven — but was unable to find the net.
“It’s a shame for him that he couldn’t score, but I think he’s handling the situation well. He’s not giving up,” Defour said during his post-match analysis.
“That’s why it’s important that he gains confidence and starts against Poznan. If he can score there, he might be completely on his way.”
The 23-year-old striker enjoyed a breakout campaign last season, finishing as the Belgian Pro League’s top scorer with 21 goals — a tally that earned him the golden boot and widespread recognition for his clinical finishing.
However, despite his prolific form, Arokodare has recently lost his starting spot to South Korean forward Hyeon-gyu Oh, who has become Genk’s first-choice striker.
Even so, Arokodare’s market value remains high. Genk are reportedly holding out for a record-breaking fee, one that could eclipse the €25 million received from Sheffield United for Sander Berge in 2020.
Italian giants Atalanta, AC Milan, and Juventus are among the clubs said to be closely monitoring his situation.
