Joel Ajayi

Nigerian footballer Jacob Isaac Ekpo is looking to build on his development in Asia as the young attacker continues his progression in professional football.

Born on January 23, 2007, Ekpo has developed as a versatile attacking player, capable of operating primarily on the left wing and as a striker, while also having experience at right-back.

The youngster is currently with Chumphon United in Thailand, having previously developed through the Bali United Academy.

Ekpo’s football development has included experience in different positions, a background he believes has helped him understand the game from both defensive and attacking perspectives.

The 19-year-old describes himself as a player whose game is built around pace, physical strength and intensity. His attributes include acceleration, stamina, high pressing, attacking runs behind defensive lines and the ability to contribute defensively when his team is without the ball.

His willingness to track back is also part of his playing style, while his experience as a full-back before moving into a more advanced attacking role has added versatility to his game.

Ekpo previously attracted attention during the 2024 1XBET Cup, where he represented Next Talented Ballers FC. Following the team’s exit from the competition, Ekpo spoke about the disappointment of missing an opportunity to progress further but remained optimistic about the team’s future. He said the tournament had provided an opportunity for the players to showcase themselves and expressed confidence that they would improve with experience.

His subsequent move to Thailand represents another stage in a career that the young Nigerian hopes will eventually take him to a higher level of professional football.

For Ekpo, each season represents an opportunity to improve, gain experience and move closer to his long-term ambition of playing at the highest professional level in Asia or Europe.

The forward’s development will now be closely linked to his ability to adapt to the demands of senior football, continue improving his technical and tactical qualities and establish himself in competitive professional football.

At his age, Ekpo’s versatility could remain an important part of his development. Having experience in both defensive and attacking positions gives him an understanding of different phases of the game, while his pace, work rate and direct approach provide the foundation for his preferred attacking role.

As he continues his career in Thailand, Ekpo is focused on making steady progress and using each opportunity to develop as a footballer.

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