Alex Iwobi has expressed his delight at making his first start at home for Arsenal, claiming it was ‘like a dream come true’.
19-year-old Iwobi had made five appearances this season, totalling 108 minutes of senior football. He played 67 minutes of yesterday’s FA Cup victory over Sunderland.
Iwobi is constantly so composed on the ball. Takes his time and often chooses the right pass. #AFCvSFC
— Read Arsenal (@ReadArsenalFC) January 9, 2016
Speaking after the game, Iwobi, as reported by the club’s official website, discussed how good it felt to play at the Emirates.
It is amazing.
As a young kid I always wondered if I would get there and to have this opportunity today, I’m just thankful. It was a young boy’s dream come true. Playing at home with everyone screaming your name and giving you the confidence to express yourself – it felt like a proper debut.
It is the best feeling ever. It is a dream come true. Since I was a young boy I have always wanted to put on my shirt with Iwobi on my back with the Emirates [crowd] screaming my name.
The Nigerian midfielder also reinforced how helpful it has been to him to train with the senior squad, and noted that he is developing with every session.
Training and playing with them [the first team] every day is such a learning curve. Hopefully I can train with them more and play more so I can develop every day.
Iwobi signed a professional deal with Arsenal in May 2014 and put pen to paper on a long-term deal in October 2015.
He has played for England at under-18 level, however, chose to represent Nigeria, the country of his birth, at senior level. He has made two appearances for the Super Eagles, however, is yet to score.
Arsenal’s next match is against Liverpool, who were taken to an FA Cup replay by League 2 side Exeter this weekend, on Wednesday.
