Stalwart Black Stars Defender Dreams of Playing in ‘Spectacular’ English Premiership

Stalwart Black Stars Defender Dreams of Playing in ‘Spectacular’ English Premiership

Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe
updated at April 12, 2023 at 7:59 PM
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  • Alexander Djiku has described the English topflight as spectacular and dreams of walking in the footsteps of Amartey, Partey and Jordan Ayew
  • The French-born Ghanaian defender was put in a defensive masterclass alongside Daniel Amartey as Ghana qualified for the World Cup at the expense of Nigeria
  • He has been a key cog in Strasbourg's campaign in the French Ligue 1 this season, netting his first goal in the 1-0 win against AS Monaco

Ghana and Strasbourg defender Alexander Djiku has shed light on his dreams of playing in arguably the best league in the world - the English Premier League.

The hardworking defender recently put up a monstrous display for the Black Stars in an epic doubleheader against Nigeria for a place at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Djiku's partnership with Leicester City's Daniel Amartey ensured the fiery Nigerian attack led by Napoli marksman Victor Osimhen fed on scraps over two legs with Ghana grabbing one of Africa's five tickets allotted for the World Cup.

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Stalwart Black Stars defender Alexander Djiku dreams of playing in the spectacular English premiership. Photo credit: @GhanaBlackstars @alex_djiku
Source: Twitter

With interests from top clubs in Europe circling around for his signature, the French-born guardsman is eyeing a shot at the Premier League despite reservations about his height.

"I understand the reservations about my height, as the English game is a direct game, but the size is only one component of winning a duel." He told Sky Sports News.
Djiku continued: "There is also bodywork, timing, relaxation, and anticipation. Also, the taller you are, the less mobile and quick you are to deal with fast and technical players. I think that 1m 82cm is the right height for a modern central defender."

The stats in France this season back up his words. Only Sven Botman and Nayef Aguerd have won more ariel duels so his height would not put him off taking an opportunity in England.

"I've spoken a lot with Andre Ayew, Jordan Ayew and Thomas Partey. They have enjoyed the Premier League so much since they have been here. It's a spectacular league that gives you the opportunity to express yourself and it's often a very open game. It's one of the best leagues in the world and obviously, this makes you want to try it one day."

Alexander Djiku opens up after helping Ghana qualify for Qatar 2022

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that France-born Ghanaian defender, Alexander Djiku is already looking forward to the World Cup in Qatar this year after his impressive display against Nigeria helped the Black Stars make a return to the global showpiece.

The Strasbourg centre-back was in scintillating form in the two-legged play-off against Nigeria, keeping the star-studded attacking line of Nigeria, which included Napoli's hitman Victor Osimhen, at bay.

In a post on Twitter, Djiku expressed delight in Ghana's qualification and also thanked the fans for their immense support for the Black Stars.

Authors
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe photo
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe is a Ligue 1, Bundesliga, and La Liga editor with five-year experience. He previously worked with Sports Corna and 360SportsGH.
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