Ex-Chelsea Star Claims Versatility Can Be a Negative Following £20m Transfer to South Coast
Bournemouth's new record signing Nathan Aké has claimed that his versatility as a footballer is both a positive and a negative, as he tries to forge a reputation as a central defender.
During a loan spell with Watford in the 2015/16 Premier League season, Aké was used mainly as a left-back. While Cherries boss Eddie Howe has earmarked the 22-year-old Dutchman for a central role, he has been moved around between various defensive and midfield roles so far during his career both at Stamford Bridge and during his loan moves.
Aké believes it is his ability to play anywhere that has taken him so long to settle into a position, according to Bournemouth Echo reports.
“Before I came here last season, my preferred position was as a six, holding. I came here as that," Aké said to the Echo.
“But in training, I had an opportunity to play centre-back and then played there in the game as well. I felt quite comfortable," he continued. “I felt my passing and technical game improved under Eddie but there are still a lot of things to learn.”
The Dutch international went on to talk about how being a versatile footballer has both good and bad aspects.
“Sometimes you want to focus on one position and specialise in this position," he said. “But, on the other hand, it is also good for a manager to have someone who can play in more than one position and it can be good for you as well.”
The Dutch defender is currently with the Bournemouth squad in southern Spain as the club gets ready for their first pre-season game against Lisbon-based side Estoril Praia.
