HOPE Akpan will be playing his football in Finland after signing a year’s deal with SJK.

The former Bantams midfielder has been without a club since being released last summer.

But Seinajoen Jalkapallokerho (SJK) this morning confirmed his capture to play in the Veikkausliiga, the Finnish top flight.

Akpan and his family arrived in Seinajoki last month but had to undergo a period of quarantine and coronavirus testing.

“I felt that this is a new and interesting challenge for me and my family; move to a whole new country and play in a new league,” he said.

“It gives me a whole new kind of energy and enthusiasm.

“I’ve also talked a lot with the club’s head coach about his objectives and the way of playing and I believe that this is the right step in my career.

“Here we have the opportunity to win something together and perhaps get to play in Europe.”

Akpan was signed by Michael Collins in July 2018. He played 54 times in two seasons with City, scoring six goals.

SJK head coach JJ Honkavaara said: “In all the discussions with Hope, it has become clear that he was very motivated to come to Finland.

“That’s why I think Hope is the right kind of player for us in midfield. He is physically strong and resilient as well as a very good team player.

“His role on previous teams has been defensive midfield but I think he can also play a box-to-box role. It’s great to see him in action after a long period of quarantine.”