Abdul Abdulmalik says he is ‘ready for the next challenge’ as Boreham Wood exit looms

Abdul Abdulmalik says he is ‘ready for the next challenge’ amid reported interest from Djurgården, with his Boreham Wood exit increasingly appearing imminent.

The highly-rated forward released an emotional statement to his Instagram followers on Tuesday afternoon amid interest from the Swedish top-flight side, who have reportedly seen a £1.5m bid rejected.

The potential deal could smash the Non-League transfer record, surpassing the £1m Leicester City paid Fleetwood Town for Jamie Vardy in 2012.

Abdulmalik was notably absent from Boreham Wood’s squad for Saturday’s 3-0 National League win against Forest Green Rovers, with boss Luke Garrard subsequently insisting: “He’s our player.”

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‘I owe it to myself’

But his latest comments suggest his future could now lie away from Meadow Park.

The 23-year-old took to social media to reflect on his football journey, from growing up on a council estate in South London to dreaming of playing at the highest level.

He says he has always known he would have to work harder to make those dreams a reality and credits the support of his family and loved ones for helping him build a career despite their limited means.

“That’s why from the beginning I have vowed to do my best to support them and take my career to the furthest heights possible,” Abdulmalik explained in his statement.

“Through sheer hard work and perseverance, the opportunity to progress has come around.

“This is my chance to push myself as a footballer, elevate my game and most importantly fulfil my promise to the ones around me.

“Opportunities like this are rare, especially within the National League where some of the hardest working talent is overlooked.

“The game of football is forever changing and decisions are fast paced. There’s no guarantee that the same chances come knocking twice.

“I owe it to myself and the kids growing up just like me to fight for this one I’ve been offered.

“Moving on from a club is one of the toughest decisions in a footballers career. I’m more than grateful for everyone that has been a part of my journey so far.

“Everyone at Boreham Wood FC and the incredible fans have played a massive part. You will always have my respect.

“With this said, I’m ready for the next challenge. I’m ready to prove to myself and those around me that I’m capable of reaching the top.”

New deals for Wood duo

In the meantime, Boreham Wood have announced new deals for key players, with Zak Brunt and Tom White both committing their futures to the club.

Brunt has signed an improved contract after an outstanding 12 months at Meadow Park, having played a starring role in the club’s record-breaking campaign last season.

The 24-year-old initially returned to Hertfordshire on loan from Barnet before making the move permanent for a club-record fee in November.

He went on to score 15 goals and provide 14 assists from an attacking midfield role, including decisive strikes in the play-off eliminator against Forest Green and semi-final victory at Carlisle United.

White, meanwhile, has extended his stay until the end of the 2027-28 season, with the club holding an option for a further year.

The 29-year-old made a strong start after joining from Morecambe last summer before a serious hamstring injury interrupted his campaign.

He returned in March and played a key role in the run-in, helping Boreham Wood secure fourth place before leading the side out at Wembley for their play-off final defeat against Rochdale.

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