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Club News

John-Christophe Ayina Joins Dale

6 November 2015

Club News

John-Christophe Ayina Joins Dale

6 November 2015

Manager Keith Hill has bolstered his attacking options by recruiting forward John-Christophe Ayina.


The Frenchman has joined Dale on non-contract terms after impressing during a month long trial period at the club.

Ayina, who is 24-years-old, has previously had a spells with Paris St Germain and Racing Santander, and more recently was on the books at Spanish club Getafe.

Assistant Manager Chris Beech commented: “We got wind that he was available to come in and train with us so we thought we would have a look. He has been with us for a little while and he has made an impression in the games that we arrange for behind closed doors.

“The games against other teams in the North West are good because they give a platform for players like John-Christophe to play in. He has represented us in those games and he has scored a few goals against Burnley and Blackburn Rovers.

“He has done well in the goal scoring aspects so it’s something that we can look to progress over the next couple of months.”

He continued: “He’s got an ability you can’t ignore and he can put the ball in the back of the net. There are also things we’d like to improve with him so the next couple months are an extended period to see whether ‘Big John’, as we call him, can acquire the traits we want from our players. 

“He’s an attacking centre forward with an eye for goal but we want other elements of his game to improve and that will determine whether or not he will receive a structured opportunity here. He’s happy with this opportunity and he’s a good lad so it’s a case of seeing how far this can go.”

Ayina added: “I want to thank the Manager for giving me the opportunity to be here. 

“I’m enjoying it and I have settled in well. I’m happy and I have a good feeling about the squad. I’m working hard with the team every day and my ambition is to play. 

“I'm pleased to be here and I'll continue working hard.”


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