Ghana midfielder Kudus Mohammed says he considered wearing the number 34 jersey of Abdelhak Nouri after completing his move from Nordsjaelland to Ajax, but opted for the number 20 out of respect for the Moroccan who recently woke from a 32 month coma.
Abdelhak Nouri collapsed whiles playing for the Dutch giants in a friendly against Werder Bremen on July 8, 2017, before eventually falling into coma over two years. The injury ended the career of the then 20-year old.
Kudus who is excited to make the big move from Denmark to the Netherlands paid respect to Nouri and sent words of encouragement to the recovering youngster.
"Elated to join Ajax & braced for the future cos it’s a special place with a new culture & challenges. I considered #34 but I dedicate my signing to Abdelhak “Appie” Nouri a bro in faith to keep his dreams alive," he posted on Facebook.
"I owe this to all the staff & team mates at FCN & RtD. I look forward to further developing & winning with the team & fans. Officially a lion with the Lancers & de Godenzonen," he added.
The former Right to Dream Academy player joined the Dutch giants on a five year contract, in a deal worth 9 million Euros.
This is the highest transfer record by a Ghanaian teenager in history to amplify his immense quality and talent.
Mohammed has been one the most prolific teenagers in Denmark, scoring 12 goals in 25 appearances for Nordsjælland.
The 19-year old made his Ghana national team debut last November when he came on as a substitute against South Africa in the Nations Cup qualifier. He scored his only goal for the country in that match.
Mohammed began his career with Right to Academy before moving to Europe to sign for FC Nordsjaelland.
He shot to prominence after a good FIFA U-17 World Cup in India in 2017.
By Lukman Abdul Mumin