Former Premier League ace Noel Whelan has said that Alex Iwobi is the most creative winger in the Everton ranks and he could prove a key performer for the Toffees following the international break. The Nigeria international joined the Merseyside outfit from Arsenal on transfer deadline day and he has since proved a quality purchase, having already contributed a couple of goals and an assist.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Whelan highlighted that Iwobi was the most effective player for the Toffees against Burnley, though the club ended in a defeat. He added that the former Gunners graduate has the pace and ability to create chances and he should start more regularly under manager Marco Silva, whose position has come under scrutiny of late.
“He was the most effective Everton player against Burnley at the weekend. He’s got the pace and ability to beat players and create chances, and that’s something they’re lacking at the moment. Richarlison looks like he has lost confidence and belief in himself, and Iwobi is a bigger threat. He’s a brilliant talent, he just needs to find more consistency and better decision-making. The raw skill and ability is there. If he starts to realise his potential, he can keep Silva in his job,” he told.
The Toffees have lost the previous four league games and they are currently in the drop zone with seven points. Following the international break, they are scheduled to face West Ham United on their home patch and the fixture could decide the fate of Silva. The Portuguese is already on the cusp of dismissal with the recent form and anything less than a victory over the Hammers could cost him the job.
Meanwhile, Iwobi could be rewarded with an extended run of games from the starting XI after adapting to the club’s style of play. The Super Eagles attacker has made eight appearances for the Toffees this term and out of those, only three have been starts.
