Adebayo Akinfenwa believes he has come of age after overcoming the boo boys from the terraces.
The AFC Wimbledon striker has found the net hard to come by this season with only four goals in 17 appearances.
However, ahead of the visit of Wycombe Wanderers tomorrow (Saturday) the 33-year-old is a happy footballer.
He told Sky Sports: “There was a period in my career, maybe four years ago, when I got frustrated that people said I was just a battering ram.
"To have a career spanning more than 10 years, you've got to have more about you than just being a big guy.
“My stats speak for themselves; I've got a good touch for a big man, I know I can find the back of the net.
Neal Ardley wants high-level performances against Wycombe Wanderers and Dagenham & Redbridge
Karleigh Osborne thriving on solid defensive partnership at AFC Wimbledon
“I've come of age now, and I embrace it because I can look in the mirror and be happy."
His happiness cannot always overpower the frustration he feels when he ends up on the wrong end of a referee’s whistle.
“Sometimes I get aggressive, I'm only human,” he said.
“I've had a referee say I'm too strong - that's like telling someone to stop running because they're too fast. It makes no sense.”
Aknifenwa, who spoke about his devout Christian beliefs last year, added: "I do think I get unfair treatment. Just because it's unnatural for me to go down it doesn't mean it's not necessarily a foul.
“I try to get on with things, but it's frustrating. I've got a different physique, I play a certain way.
“The officials should take that into consideration."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel