Why Have The Goals and Assists Dried Up for Alex Iwobi in These World Cup Qualification Series?

I like Iwobi a lot, I really do but one would have expected him to step up a gear or two for the Super Eagles in midfield but he has maintained a stable, yet stagnant state of performance, with some arguing that he has actually regressed.

Please, let’s be clear about something, I think Iwobi’s performances in these qualifiers have been satisfactory and acceptable.

But, a player of his stature who plays perennially in the Premier League in England, honestly, I think a section of fans are well within their onions to demand for more, way more.

I like his effective combination and understanding with Ndidi, his work rate and dedication remain faultless. However, where is the magic? Where is the “oh my goodness” moment? Where are the passes, crosses, assists, goals and all round movements that mark him out as a worthy contender for man of the match, player of the tournament, or Africa footballer of the year awards?

Much as it pains me to say, Iwobi’s game has plateaued. His passes hold promise which often go unrealised, his efforts at goal, though respectable and impressive, rarely end in the back of the net, and his movements have sort of become predictable with his dribbles and take-ons having ever so dwindling success rate.

The Fulham man is on the way to becoming an Ekong: relevant only off the bench.

Should the Super Eagles unearth one or two Fredricks in midfield in the coming months, Iwobi’s bench status will be all but confirmed.

But I find it hard, even painful to criticise Iwobi because it is hard to find a hard working midfielder like Iwobi who hardly gives less than 100 percent in effort, drive and commitment.

In no other era of the Super Eagles would you find a player with such a level of dedication.

So, I really have no problems with him, other than to observe that he doesn’t seem to be improving.

But what he gives the team is still good. However, of a player of his standing, stature and experience, I don’t think it is quite good enough.

His performances are highly satisfactory, fans expect it to be highly exceptional.