Yusuf Akhamrich is ready to give everything he has got to help Bristol Rovers after signing on loan from Premier League outfit Tottenham Hotspur for the remainder of the 2025/26 season.
The winger has excelled at Spurs' academy and is now taking his first steps in senior football at the Pirates. Featuring three times in Tottenham's senior squad this season, twice in the Champions League and once in the Premier League, the 20-year-old is ready to get on the pitch in the blue-and-white quarters.
A first loan move away for any player is vital, with Akhamrich expressing his excitement at playing in Sky Bet League Two under Head Coach Steve Evans in his first interview with BRTV.
Having already experienced The Memorial Stadium this term, scoring for Spurs U21s in the 4-4 draw with the Gas in the Vertu Trophy, he cannot wait to get out on the pitch again, but this time with the backing of the home support.
So, Yusuf. First of all, welcome to Bristol Rovers. How does it feel to be here?
“I’m excited to be here. I can’t wait to get going. You know, it feels good. I’m ready to go.”
What were the conversations with the gaffer like?
“They were quite good. I’ve met the gaffer now; he’s a great guy. I like what he’s working towards, I like what he’s doing with the squad. I’m excited to work under him and play for him.”
The first senior loan move. It’s always so important. What made you know that Bristol Rovers was the right step for you?
“You know, Bristol is a big footballing city. It's a big club with a big history. I thought it would help my development coming here and playing under the gaffer. He knows what he wants, he knows what he wants from his players, his team, and it’s a good place to be. I can’t wait to get started.”
And the Rovers fans have seen a bit of you before, but how would you describe your playing style to the fans?
“I like to be direct. I like to drive at people, take people on and shoot. Hopefully get some goals, get some crosses in and just be an entertainment for the fans.”
You’ve got experience at your age already, making a few appearances for Spurs’ senior squad. What were those experiences like?
“They were insane, honestly. It’s a mental feeling being out there, even if it’s just on the bench in front of 60,000 people, it’s crazy. It’s an experience I’ll never forget.”
You have international experience as well. How has that helped to shape you?
“Honestly, playing for my country was a great feeling. It helped me a lot in my development, playing with different people, people from all around the world.
“All around Europe as well. It kind of links to here, playing with different people I’ve never played with. So, it’ll be good for me to get going.”
You’ve got plenty of friends at Spurs who have gone on loan moves in the EFL. Did you talk to any of them about what it takes to play in League Two?
“Definitely. The main thing is that it’s a very physical experience when you’re playing in the league. There are a lot of people and players here who have a lot of experience, who have been around in different leagues.
“The main thing is, you’ve just got to be strong. Ready to fight and ready to run for your teammates and for your gaffer. I’m ready to do all of those things.”
This is your first chance to get regular senior appearances. How ready are you for that?
“I’m ready. I can’t wait to get going. I’m excited. I’ll give all it takes, and I’ll do my best to help the team, help the players and the staff.”
And you’ve already got a taste of The Mem, so far this season and scored. What was that experience like?
“That was a crazy game. The experience there was great. I heard the noise from the fans; I felt that atmosphere. It was top. I can’t wait to play there again.”
In the January transfer window, things move quickly. There’s a game in only a couple of days’ time as well. How ready are you to hit the ground running?
“I’m so ready to play. Hopefully, I can be involved. I’ll do my best no matter what. If I come on, if I don’t play, I’ll always be there to support and help the team in any way that I can.”
