Not so long ago it seemed as though Alex Iwobi’s time at Everton was coming to an end as the midfielder struggled to hold down a regular spot under Rafa Benitez.
It was the same with the previous two managers the Nigerian had worked with at the club since his big money move in 2019.
As relegation concerns intensified, the club decided to replace Benitez with former Chelsea manager Frank Lampard in January. Although the Toffees are still fighting for survival, Iwobi’s importance in the team has grown remarkably in recent weeks.
The Nigerian international has started and completed the full 90 minutes in all of Everton’s last eight league games as they move a point and two places above the relegation zone.
“My first couple of years here weren’t the greatest, but this is my best period at Everton. I want to use it as a platform to kick on and make more positive memories with this club,” Iwobi said in late April.
It is credit to Lampard’s faith in the 26-year-old that he has been deployed in various roles while he still maintains his starting spot. Iwobi has rewarded the trust places in him with some outstanding performances over that time.
He provided a beautiful cross for Everton’s first goal in Sunday’s 2-1 win at Leicester City. He was named man of the match for his all-around performance and received high praise from Nigerian legend Sunday Oliseh.
“Extremely impressed by Alex Iwobi’s performance Vs Leicester Today. Simple, clairvoyant, hard-working, tracking back, changing play, and dictating the tempo, especially at a time when his club’s survival in the 1er league is on the line. Kudos Lil Bro!!” Oliseh said.
With four games left to play, Lampard and Everton faithfuls will be hoping Iwobi continues his revival and help the club retain their Premier League status for next season.
