Ally McCoist was left stunned by what Nathan Ake did in the FA Cup clash between Manchester City and Tottenham.
Well, the Netherlands international channelled his inner John Terry in the 11th minute, bravely sliding along the turf to head the ball – at the risk of getting a boot or two in the head.
After witnessing the bizarre moment, McCoist said: “Am I seeing things here or did Ake just head the ball on the floor? My oh my.”
Aside from his match winning goal, the 28-year-old completed 57 of his attempted 63 passes with a success rate of 90% to his name, as SofaScore shows.
Ake also embarked on one successful dribble, with his speed across the ground helping Manchester City keep the likes of Brennan Johnson, Richarlison and Timo Werner quiet.
The defender’s pace ensured Josko Gvardiol could push forward down the left on a regular basis, safe in the knowledge that Ake would cover the space.
The Netherlands international is not just a classy footballer, but his 11th minute glide across the pitch to head the ball clear shows he possesses plenty of steel as well, while he can also pop up with vital goals.
When John Stones finally returns to the starting XI and slots into his midfield hybrid role, Ake should hopefully be able to take his own game to an even higher level.
Leave a Reply