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Alex Schalk
Alex Adrianus Antonius Schalk (born 7 August 1992) is a Dutch professional footballer who plays as a forward or a winger for Eerste Divisie club ADO Den Haag. Schalk began his career at NAC Breda, earning the nickname "Der Bomber van Breda" for his goal-scoring abilities. He went on to play for PSV, Go Ahead Eagles, and Ross County, where he scored the decisive goal in the 2015–16 Scottish League Cup final. Following a successful spell at Servette in Switzerland, where he made 100 league appearances, and a stint with Urawa Red Diamonds in Japan, Schalk returned to the Netherlands, signing with ADO Den Haag in 2024. CareerSchalk came through the youth ranks of NAC Breda, earning the nickname of "Der Bomber van Breda" because of his reputation as a footballer with remarkable goalscoring instincts, comparable to legendary German striker Gerd Müller.[3] On 1 May 2011, he made his senior debut for NAC against Heracles Almelo in the 33rd round of the 2010–11 Eredivisie season, replacing Ömer Bayram in the 85th minute. The match ended in a 2–1 home loss.[4] On 9 August 2011, Schalk agreed to a new two-year contract at NAC until June 2013.[5] After losing perspective on playing matches for NAC Breda, Schalk was sent on loan to PSV, where he played for Eerste Divisie side Jong PSV. He scored six times in 16 matches for the Eerste Divisie side. On 28 June 2014, Schalk signed a one-year deal with Eredivisie side Go Ahead Eagles on a free transfer. Schalk moved to Scottish Premiership club Ross County in October 2015.[6] On 13 March 2016, he scored a late winner as Ross County won their first major silverware with a 2–1 victory over Hibernian in the Scottish League Cup final.[7] On 16 April 2017, in the 88th minute of a Premiership match at home to Celtic, he won a penalty which was converted to earn Ross County a 2–2 draw. The act was described as a "clear dive" while Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers accused Schalk of "blatant cheating".[8][9] Days later, he was charged with committing an "act of simulation" and handed a two-game suspension by the Scottish Football Association's compliance officer which both he and his club accepted.[10] After Ross County were relegated to the Scottish Championship, Schalk was allowed to leave and join the Swiss side Servette. [11] He made headlines in October 2019 after giving the middle finger to FC Sion fans after scoring a goal. As a result, he was suspended for two games.[12] On 25 March 2022, Schalk signed with Urawa Red Diamonds in Japan.[13] On 15 December 2023, he scored the only goal in a 1–0 victory over León in the FIFA Club World Cup second round.[14] On 12 January 2024, Schalk signed a contract with ADO Den Haag until June 2025, with an option to extend to 2026.[15] Career statistics
HonoursClubRoss County Servette Urawa Red Diamonds References
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