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This article is part of Football FanCast’s Pundit View series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent quotes from journalists, pundits, players and managers…
Danny Mills believes Alex Iwobi’s move to Merseyside has provided him with an opportunity to rejuvenate his career.
What did he say?
Iwobi had spent 15 years at Arsenal having joined at the age of eight, graduating from the academy under Arsene Wenger before going on to make 149 senior appearances for the club, although he did receive some criticism from Unai Emery last season.
The Turk was not as patient with the winger as his predecessor was, warning the 23-year-old earlier this year that he had to become more productive in the final third if he was to hold down a consistent place in the team.
Having failed to do so, the Gunners were more than willing to allow his move to Goodison Park, particularly for a price of £34m.
It is a quite surprising sum given he contributed only 15 goals and 27 assists during his time at Arsenal, but Danny Mills believes he has quality and perhaps only needed the chance to breathe fresh life into his game, which is what this move has provided.
Speaking to Football Insider, Mills said: “I think sometimes you can go a little bit stale at clubs, especially when you’ve been there as a kid, you’re maybe not as appreciated as you deserve. He’s been given a fresh chance and a new challenge and it seems that excitement and endeavour is back.
“He’s already got himself on the scoresheet, which was questioned of him, which is fabulous. It looks like he has that renewed energy and sometimes it’s very, very simple. He probably just feels a little bit loved, a little appreciated.”
Chance to shine
The Nigerian has seemingly already completed his first goal upon arrival – to gain a place in the first-team. Bernard had started the Toffees’ opening few matches but an impressive cameo appearance against Aston Villa allowed Iwobi to stake a claim for the first team.
In the two matches since he has started twice and got on the scoresheet on both occasions, and is starting to show his influence on the team.
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He is amongst the most creative members of Everton’s squad and his skill on the ball opens up chances and space for teammates, so he could be a key outlet for Marco Silva’s side.
However, if he is to become a key man he does need to work on his end product. His two goals so far will give him confidence and if he can continue scoring at such a rate then the move from Arsenal will be regarded as a highly successful one.
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