Nigeria’s Super Eagles forward, Alex Iwobi has revealed that the duo of former Nigeria international, Mikel Obi and Odion Ighalo were his sources of inspiration in the national team before they both called it a day with international careers.
The Everton striker, both Nigeria international, who end their international careers after last year’s Africa Cup of Nations, said he was most impressed by Mikel’s physicality during his time with the national team.
“I have learnt a lot from Mikel because we play similar positions. Whenever I’m called I play behind the striker, that’s where he likes to play.
“In training, whilst watching him on the pitch, whilst I’m on the bench watching him, I’ve always learned, the way he’s physically capable to keep the ball in tight situations because playing in African culture there’s a lot more physicality, there’s a lot more strong duels, the way he’s able to use his body is something I have picked up and try to add to my game,” Iwobi said.
Speaking further, the former Arsenal player said Ighalo’s ability as a clinical finisher in front of goal for the Super Eagles made his his favourite striker to play with.
“With Ighalo, the composure he has when he’s in the box, when he has the opportunity to score I’m trying to add to my game.
“It’s almost like when he’s clean through on goal, ninety percent of the time the ball is in the back of the net and not with a lot of power but with finesse and style to it.
“Hopefully, that’s something that not just me but the youngsters like Victor, it is something that we have to put a lot of respect for.
“Both of them talk to you, they try to help everyone, it was a blessing to play with both of them,” added Iwobi.
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