‘He has some very important qualities’ – Venezia coach backs Akor Adams to reach new heights

New Venezia coach Davide Nicola believes Akor Adams has significant room for improvement after the Nigerian striker delivered a match-winning performance in the club’s Serie A victory over Napoli on Saturday.

Adams scored four minutes into the second half to secure Venezia’s first win of the campaign, giving Nicola an encouraging start following his appointment earlier this week.

The Nigerian forward capitalised on a defensive error to break the deadlock, beating Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret after a long throw-in from Simon Sohm, the Switzerland international of Nigerian descent.

The goal proved decisive as Venezia claimed their first three points of the season on matchday seven, offering a timely boost to a side that had struggled for results under former manager Giovanni Stroppa.

Nicola, who has signed a two-year contract to take charge of the club, was reluctant to focus exclusively on Adams but praised the striker’s attitude, personality and potential to develop further.

Speaking after the match, the Venezia manager stressed that the forward’s contribution extends beyond his goalscoring ability.

“I’m not crazy about talking about individual players. Every player you have has quality,” Nicola said, in quotes relayed by Tuttosport.

“He puts his heart and soul into it, he came here wanting to help, and he has some very important qualities.

“He listens, he has personality, he helps the team. He has incredible room for improvement.”

Adams delivers when Venezia need him most

Adams’ decisive contribution against Napoli provided an immediate reward for Nicola as he begins the task of turning Venezia’s fortunes around.

The striker reacted quickest to the opportunity created by Sohm’s long throw, punishing Napoli’s defensive lapse before calmly finishing past Meret.

The result marked a significant moment for Venezia, who had waited until their seventh league fixture to register their first victory of the season.

For Nicola, the performance offered an early indication of the attacking qualities available to him as he attempts to improve the team’s results and establish greater consistency.

Adams’ willingness to work for the collective cause also appears to have impressed the new manager, who highlighted his commitment and readiness to contribute to the team.

The coach’s assessment suggests he sees the Nigerian as more than a goalscorer, with his personality, work ethic and ability to support teammates also forming part of his value to the side.

Nigerian forward building momentum after Sevilla move

Adams joined Venezia from Sevilla during the summer transfer window and has made an encouraging start to his career in Italy.

The forward has recorded four goals and one assist in nine appearances across competitions, establishing himself as an important attacking option for the club.

His latest contribution against Napoli further strengthens his case as Nicola looks to build a team capable of climbing the Serie A standings.

The manager’s comments also indicate that Adams could have a significant role to play as he continues to adapt to his new surroundings and develop his game.

With Nicola now in charge, the Nigerian will hope to maintain his scoring form and turn his promising start into a consistent run of performances.

Adams also making his mark for Nigeria

The striker has continued to contribute on the international stage, adding to his growing profile with the Super Eagles.

On October 6, Adams scored a stoppage-time equaliser as Nigeria drew 3-3 with Russia in an international friendly.

His ability to deliver in crucial moments for both club and country will be encouraging for the forward as he seeks to establish himself among Nigeria’s attacking options.

Nicola’s endorsement provides further encouragement, with the coach identifying qualities he believes can be developed into an even greater contribution to the team.

With four goals and an assist already to his name, Adams has given his new manager reasons for optimism. The challenge now is to sustain that impact as Venezia look to recover from their difficult start to the Serie A season.