Chuba Akpom says it was his decision to move on loan to Belgian side STVV and that he’s determined to make a good impression knowing that he has only 18 months left on his current Arsenal contract.
A fringe player at the Emirates this season, the England under-21 international made the surprise move across the Channel on transfer deadline day in search of regular game time and first team experience.
Speaking to regional publication Het Balenag van Limburg (translated by Sport Witness), Akpom underlined how much he’s looking forward to the new challenge.
“I already have a good feeling about this move,” he said.
“For the sake of clarity, I have chosen STVV myself, Arsenal didn’t force this club on me. When I heard of the interest from Sint-Truiden, I did some research.
“If I ever want to become a real Gunner, I have to take the last step. So I will do everything to get STVV to the play-off 1.
“I need top matches, I realise that very well. In 18 months my contract with Arsenal ends so I have every interest in doing well here.
“Arsene Wenger recently told me that he has all the confidence in me and that I am sharp.”
This is Akpom’s sixth loan in five years and comes after spells at Brentford, Coventry, Nottingham Forest, Hull City and Brighton.
Hope he does it. Not too confident but you never know.
Yes he really needs to impress this time.
He did well at Hull for his age (as Steve Bruce confirmed) but was hardly noticed at Brighton.
If he doesn’t make positive headlines in Belgium then I think he’ll be joining a 1st Div or Championship side this summer.
Knowing us right niw he’ll have a stormer and go for a free next season lol….
No maybe even for us that’s a bit reachy. Wish him all the best, always wanted him to do well
18 months on his contract, so although it’s possible, a fee is more likely.
I really like his attitude. Not “If I ever want to succeed”, but “If I ever want to become a real gunner”
Come on, Chuba! He’s impossible not to love, he has a fantastic attitude and I hope he can become a great player. I really hope he makes it at Arsenal.
Wenger should stop over flattering the young guys. Akpom is not sharp.
For a striker, his scoring stats at most of his loan clubs were pretty dreadful. I always want kids from Hale end to do well and make the first team with us. I hope he develops well in Belgium, bangs in a few more goals, and then bides his time at Arsenal if given a contract extension