Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has shed light on why he finds it easier to score and assist while playing for Fulham compared to the Nigeria national team.
The 28-year-old has only managed two assists in 32 appearances for the Eagles, and many Nigerians have often questioned his limited goal contributions in international matches.
According to Iwobi, the tactical instructions he receives at international level limit his attacking freedom, restricting his ability to make forward runs and create scoring chances.
“When I'm here (with the Super Eagles), I'm taught to keep the ball and not really go forward as much,” Iwobi said, revealing that his role is more defensive in nature.
At Fulham, however, Iwobi enjoys greater freedom to express himself on the pitch.
The Premier League side gives him the license to push forward, find attacking spaces, and get into goal-scoring positions—something that isn’t always required of him when representing his country.
Iwobi: Limited freedom at Super Eagles hampers attacking expression
At Fulham, however, Alex Iwobi enjoys greater freedom to express himself on the pitch.
The Premier League side gives him the license to push forward, find attacking spaces, and get into goal-scoring positions—something that isn’t always required of him when representing his country.
Having earned 67 caps for Nigeria since 2015 with only 13 goal contributions, the former Arsenal man acknowledged the recent shift in his responsibilities with the Super Eagles in a recent interview with 54footballx.
“My role at club side and national team are two different roles. I was taught to sit back and let the attackers do the attacking; at least I control the midfield.
Whereas at club side, I have the freedom to express myself a bit more, get attacking, and get into goal-scoring opportunities. So that's the big difference,” he said.
