Genk captain Bryan Heynen has defended Tolu Arokodare amid comparisons with former club hero Paul Onuachu, describing such parallels as premature and unfair.
Arokodare, currently among the top scorers in the Belgian Jupiler Pro League, has faced scrutiny from fans expecting him to replicate Onuachu’s impact.
Speaking to Het Laatste Nieuws, Heynen highlighted the distinct circumstances surrounding both players’ journeys.
“The criticism Tolu received in the beginning had to do with the big shoes he had to fill,” Heynen said. “You have to remember that Paul (Onuachu) was also 28 when he left. Tolu was 22 when he arrived and has just turned 24. That is a big difference. He still has time to grow to that level.”
The Genk skipper also praised Arokodare’s recent development, attributing it to the player’s changed mindset and the influence of the club’s coaching staff.
“I think he realises that it doesn’t just have to happen on the weekend, but also during the week. Both in training and in the gym. The new staff has played a big role in that,” Heynen added.
Acknowledging the physical similarities between Arokodare and Onuachu, Heynen emphasized the unique qualities of each striker.
“He is different from Onuachu and Samatta. Because of his height, the comparison with Paul is most valid,” Heynen noted. “You can play the same game with them in principle, but there are too many differences. Tolu is faster. Paul was perhaps a bit stronger with his back to goal, although Tolu has also made progress there.”
