Jordan Ayew Ignites at Crystal Palace: Unraveling the Post-AFCON Spark Behind Ghana Star’s Sizzling Performance

• Jordan Ayew has been on a purple patch for Crystal Palace
• He has notched two goals in his last two outings for the Eagles
• We look into his red-hot streak after the 2023 AFCON

Jordan Ayew has been on a scorching streak of form for Crystal Palace since his return from the 2023 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations.

The 32-year-old has made a significant impact in his last two appearances for Palace, showcasing his importance to the team.

 

Before his recent surge in goal-scoring, Jordan had endured a dry spell, managing just two goals in 22 games.

This poor return in front of goal had led to criticism of the Ghanaian forward, with many questioning his goal-scoring abilities.

However, his defensive stats tell a different story. According to Premier League statistics, Jordan has contributed significantly defensively, with 50 tackles, 11 blocked shots, 13 interceptions, and 10 clearances.

Jordan’s form after the AFCON

Since his return from the AFCON, Jordan has played a total of five games and seems to have rediscovered his attacking prowess in his last two outings.

He scored a spectacular goal from outside the box against Everton, securing a 1-1 draw for Crystal Palace. He then excelled against Burnley, scoring a goal and providing an assist in their 3-0 victory under new coach Oliver Glasner, per Ghanaweb.

Explaining Jordan’s recent goal-scoring streak

Owuraku Ampofo, the country manager of Flashcore in Ghana, explained to Sports Brief that Jordan’s resurgence can be attributed to his increased attacking responsibilities in the absence of attacking duo Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze.

“I think it’s the injuries to Eze and Olise, to be honest.”

“Now there’s a chance for someone else to take responsibility, and he’s done that.”

How true is this?

With Olise sidelined due to a hamstring injury for at least two months and Eze expected to be out for up to three weeks, Ayew has been given a more advanced role, shouldering greater attacking responsibilities.

Before their injuries, Olise and Eze had collectively contributed 11 goals and four assists for Palace, handling the majority of the goal-scoring duties.

However, Ayew has assumed that responsibility since both players were substituted during the match against Sheffield United on January 30.

Jordan spurs Palace to victory

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Jordan Ayew found the net for the second consecutive game, propelling Crystal Palace to a resounding victory against Burnley in the Premier League on Saturday.

The 31-year-old, who also scored in the previous match against Everton, extended his recent run of good form by assisting the opening goal in the second half.

Shortly thereafter, Ayew transitioned from provider to scorer, securing a commanding win at Selhurst Park to kick off the Oliver Glasner era.

Source: Sports Brief