Arsenal winger Alex Iwobi is celebrating making his 50th professional first-team appearance by thanking team-mates who have mentored him on his incredible journey.
The Nigerian International who is currently one of the world’s hottest prospects has named Jack Wilshere and Francis Coquelin for helping him during his time at Arsenal.
Coming through the ranks to, Iwobi says the two players have had a big impact on his career by advising him on how to adapt and improve since they went through the same system before establishing themselves, in the first eleven.
[perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]“[The biggest influence on me] would probably be Jack Wilshere, but he has not been around recently. He talks to me off the pitch because he has been through the same system as me.[/perfectpullquote]
“I just watch what he does – especially as I grew up as a No 10 and he’s a No 10,” Iwobi told the Official Arsenal Website.
“Now I would say it is Francis Coquelin. He is always talking to me. After the Watford game, he told me what I did well, and what I need to improve on. He’s definitely one who keeps me in check.
“The manager, Steve Bould, everyone – even the players – have all given me advice on what to do, helping me on and off the pitch. Everyone has helped get to where I am today.
[perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]“I never thought I would be here at the age of 20, it’s an amazing feeling to have made more than 50 appearances for Arsenal.[/perfectpullquote]
“It is just the start of my career basically, so I just need to get more goals, more assists and make more appearances and do my best for the team,” he added.
Alex Iwobi has been a perfect fit in the Arsenal Squad ever since he impressed after coming on as a substitute against Barcelona. The gifted playmaker is a natural visualizer, always staying ahead of his opponents and can dictate proceedings on the field which have mostly resulted in goals.
The 20-year-old also reads the game perfectly and is never left out in transition between defense and attack. He may still be a relatively new face at the Emirates, but the strides he’s taken over the last few months show that he has the potential to be a world-class player.
Featured photo: Iwobi has grown through Arsenal’s ranks. (Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC)
