Tolu Arokodare earns Michel Sanchez praise after Ajax win at Sion

Ajax manager Michel Sanchez praised Tolu Arokodare after the Nigeria international made an immediate impact in the club’s 4-2 victory over Sion in their UEFA Europa Conference League play-off tie.

Arokodare came off the bench to score once and provide an assist as Ajax secured an important away win in a keenly contested match. The striker replaced Marcos Leonardo in the 72nd minute and needed only two minutes to influence the game.

The forward found the net in the 74th minute, scoring Ajax’s third goal of the match and helping the Eredivisie side move back in front after an eventful contest.

Arokodare remained involved until the closing stages and completed an impressive cameo three minutes before full-time. He created Ajax’s fourth goal by setting up Davy Klaassen to seal the victory.

Sanchez was pleased with the striker’s contribution and highlighted the energy and work rate he brought to the team after being introduced.

“Tolu brought a lot of energy when he came on. He works hard, he scores and he helps us,” Michel told Ajax Life per Goal.

“He has a good character. I think he is a nice boy. I hope he keeps helping us in this way.”

The performance continued a productive start to Arokodare’s time in Amsterdam. The striker has now recorded one goal and two assists in three appearances across all competitions for Ajax, the former Eredivisie champions.

Arokodare is on loan at Ajax from Sky Bet Championship club Wolverhampton Wanderers. His latest contribution came after he started the match among the substitutes, with Marcos Leonardo selected ahead of him before the change was made in the second half.

The 4-2 result gave Ajax a strong platform in the UEFA Europa Conference League play-off tie, while Arokodare’s display provided Sanchez with another example of the forward’s ability to affect matches quickly.

The manager said he hoped the striker would continue to contribute in the same manner as Ajax pursue further success in the competition.