Ex-Arsenal striker Chuba Akpom reveals what he learnt in Greece and why he's looking foward to working with Neil Warnock at Middlesbrough

The 24-year-old came through the ranks at Arsenal and had several loan spells in England before moving abroad in 2018.

Akpom helped Greek club PAOK qualify for the Champions League last season and led the line during their qualifying win over Benfica last week, yet the frontman was keen to return to England.

Speaking to Boro’s website ahead of Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Bournemouth, Akpom was asked about his time in Greece.

"I felt like I needed it. It was like a refresh for me, different style of football, different culture, different everything really," he said.

"To come back here, I'm more motivated and I'm sure it will go well.

"I know the league, I was here with Hull and Brighton when they got promoted, so hopefully I can boost the team."

Akpom was Neil Warnock’s No. 1 striker target at Boro and will provide competition for fellow strikers Britt Assombalonga and Ashley Fletcher at the Riverside.

The Teessiders are still looking to bring in one more striker before the end of the transfer window, and Akpom hopes the forwards can bring the best out of each other.

"The manager sounded very convincing - he's got a plan, and all the players need to do is work hard and follow his vision," Akpom added.

"I'm ready to meet him and I'm ready to work.

"It's a good team, we've got some good strikers. We can all push each other - that's how it should be. There's a lot of games in the Championship, so there's not always a starting XI.

"I'm ready to join them, I can't wait."

Akpom has moved to the Riverside for an undisclosed fee and could make his debut against QPR this weekend.

When the signing was announced, Boro’s website claimed other clubs were interested in the striker, yet Akpom says the move was an easy decision.

"It's an amazing feeling to sign, everyone knows the history of the Boro," he said.

"Hopefully we can push for promotion, I know that's the aim of the team and hopefully I can help with that.

"When a team like Middlesbrough comes in you don't need much convincing, it's a top club."

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