After being deemed surplus to requirements at Ajax, Sam Hendriks has a point to prove with Go Ahead Eagles.
- By Michael Bell
- Follow Michael on Twitter
Hendriks started his career with De Graafschap and although he only made one first team appearance for the club, he impressed Ajax scouts with his performances for the youth sides and earned a move to Amsterdam in 2013.
The forward took his place in Ajax’s U21 side and in three years made 78 appearances in the Eerste Divisie, scoring 23 goals. Last season he was finally handed his Ajax debut as a late substitute against Vitesse and he helped his side to a 3-1 win with an assist. However, this proved to be his only first team appearance and at the end of the season Ajax announced that the striker was free to leave the club, and he chose to sign for newly promoted Go Ahead Eagles.
Style of Play
Hendriks is predominantly a centre forward, but he can also play on either wing. His strength is his movement, with Hendriks always looking to run in behind a defence using his pace, and scoring most of his goals for Ajax from through balls. The 21-year-old is composed in one-on-one situations but needs to work on his finishing and aerial presence if he is to make an impact in the Eredivisie.
What can we expect from Hendriks this season
He may only be 21, but Hendriks hasn’t had the career expected of him when he moved to Ajax in 2013, and the striker needs to make an impact for Go Ahead Eagles if he is to finally fulfil his potential. The newly promoted club will need Hendriks to be among the goals if they are to stay in the Eredivisie next season and early signs are good with their new signing among the goals during pre-season.