Wenger explains why Iwobi has surprised him so much

Alex Iwobi has been in sublime form recently, deservedly securing a starting spot in the Arsenal team. Arsene Wenger has revealed his surprise at just how quickly the Nigerian teenager has adapted, highlighting the quality he’s shown over the last few games, as reported by FourFourTwo.

The 19-year-old has looked really exciting when he’s been given a chance this season, and is now keeping a number of senior players out of the side. He got his second Premier League goal in his second start against Watford this past weekend, while also providing the assist for Alexis Sanchez’s goal.

Wenger is well aware of the quality the youngster possesses, but didn’t expect him to settle into the first team as quickly as he has done.

“The fans have seen many good players over the years and they know straight away when a player has something special, so they acknowledge that,” Wenger said.

“You cannot cheat people. They’ve seen how quickly Alex’s improved and how well he’s played.

“It’s surprising how quickly he’s integrated into our game. He’s worked with us since the start of the season and he has grown, gained confidence and when he came in he had an impact straight away.

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“That’s benefited from the fact that he knows everybody and they trust him as well. I didn’t expect that level of efficiency or impact on the scoresheet.”

We’ve seen a lot of players threaten to graduate from the academy and break into the first team, but few have actually done so. It’s hard to see Iwobi failing to become a regular fixture in the side now though, and if he continues on this trajectory then he really could blossom into a truly top quality player.

He’s a very direct player who brings us something we’ve missed for a while, and certainly offers a lot more than the one dimensional Theo Walcott. His eye for goal and willingness to take long shots also sets him apart from a couple of our other wide-men, and unless something changes he deserves to keep his starting spot.

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We don’t want to pile too much pressure on him or play him into the ground at such a young age, but hopefully he’ll continue improving at the same rapid rate and realises his massive potential.