In a recent interview with Football Insider, ex-Premier League keeper Paul Robinson has lambasted Everton winger Alex Iwobi after his poor display versus Southampton in the Premier League last weekend. Robinson said, “Iwobi is going to find it difficult to break into this Everton team after his display at the weekend.
“He was given his opportunity against Southampton and he did not take it, which is evident from Ancelotti’s bringing him off at half time.
“Everton were very disappointing and that was a game that they would have earmarked to win.
“Iwobi was given his opportunity in a team that was playing really well, let’s not forget. He was not brought into a side that was struggling. This was a team that was top of the league and undefeated.
“It was not like he was not expected to be the star performer so it was a real opportunity missed for him. It tells you a lot if the manager drags you at half-time.”
Iwobi’s Poor Run Of Form In The Premier League This Season
The 24-year-old has endured a frustrating start to this campaign as he is not a regular starter in the Premier League anymore. Iwobi has scored one goal and provided two assists in seven matches for the Toffees this term across various competitions. His offensive numbers are average because most of his appearances have come off the bench.
Even then, Carlo Ancelotti should consider demoting him to the bench once again based of Iwobi’s lacklustre showing in the 2-0 defeat at the hands of Southampton last weekend. Robinson’s observations are accurate when he calls the Nigerian speedster out for failing to take his opportunity to shine as a starter in the English top-flight.
Richarlison’s three-match suspension has resulted in a place opening up in Ancelotti’s squad. However, one can argue that Bernard is well-equipped and more deserving to get a start over Iwobi when the Toffees travel to Newcastle United this weekend.
What Are The Former Arsenal Wing Wizard’s Best Attributes?
Iwobi is blessed with decent pace and can pull off some dangerous dribbles out on the wide areas. He is proficient at getting to the by-line but can sometimes lack the technical qualities required to be a constant menace for the opposition in the final third.
The Lagos-born player also needs to improve his productivity in front of goal if he intends to stay relevant at the top level. At 24, the 38-time Nigerian international still has plenty of time to turn his career around in English football.
Does Iwobi Have A Future At Goodison Park?
The way things are going, it seems like Iwobi will struggle to earn regular game time at Goodison Park this season as he has not thrived playing in Ancelotti’s brand of football. Hence, the Nigerian wide player could very well be shipped out of the club if he cannot figure out a way to contribute off the bench or in the domestic cup competitions.
For now, all Iwobi can do is to keep his head down and concentrate on getting better with each game so that he can answer his critics on the field. Only time will tell whether he has what it takes to turn his career around at Everton in the coming seasons.
