Togolese captain, Emmanuel Adebayor, has insisted he can easily cope with the Premier League’s intensity if given another shot.
The striker who failed to attract any interest from Europe’s elite clubs has been a free agent ever since he was released by Crystal Palace, last June.
His release came after he only managed a disappointing one goal in fifteen appearances, which deemed him surplus to Alan Pardew’s new team vision following the club’s FA Cup final loss to Manchester United.
The former Arsenal and Tottenham striker insisted he is still fit and can keep up with the premier League’s big boys, a fact he has proven in the ongoing AFCON competition.
Speaking to FIFA.com, the 32-year-old assured all his doubters saying, “I am confident that I can still play at that level.
[perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]”I am blessed with golden genes. Physically, I would certainly be able to handle the pressure.”[/perfectpullquote]
Adebayor explained the misunderstanding caused by “a bad perception of him by English sides” surrounding his professionalism.
He said, “I am the one who makes jokes when it is necessary, but I can also put my foot down if serious work is required. My father taught me to always say what I think. At times, that can lead to problems, but I always sleep well.”
He has been outstanding at the competition leading the Togolese team who have a qualification spot in their grasp.
The controversial striker is confident his side will pull through and could not hide the joy participating in this campaign has brought him.
[perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]”Why should I not be happy? I was in Cabinda in 2010. I could be sitting in a wheelchair or be dead and then nobody would be thinking of me.[/perfectpullquote]
“But now, I am here in Gabon and playing at the Africa Cup of Nations. Surely, that is enough luck,” he said.
“I am looking forward to our last group game and I have a feeling that it will not be our last in the competition.”
Togo will only go on to the next round if they beat on-form DR Congo today in their last group clash after a draw with Ivory Coast and a surprise defeat to Morocco.
Emmanuel Adebayor believes he can be a force to reckon with in Europe. (GETTY IMAGES)
