Super Eagles Stars Get Worshipped By Nigerians For Playing Football-Iwobi

Super Eagles Stars Get Worshipped By Nigerians For Playing Football-Iwobi

Alfred Kadiri

Super Eagles' exciting midfielder, Alex Iwobi has opened up on his football journey, why Everton feels like "one big family" and his Nigerian heritage in a fascinating in-depth interview with the club television channel, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Iwobi discusses his relationship with his inspirational uncle, former Premier League star Austin Jay-Jay Okocha, and why he believes he is playing the best football of his career at Everton.

October is Black History Month and Iwobi also speaks extensively about his Nigerian roots, his connection with his home country's culture and his decision to represent the African country instead of England at the international level.

"Playing for Nigeria is like home.

"Every time I go back to Nigeria, I get that homely feeling," Iwobi says.

 "I see the food, the dancing, you go out on the pitch, and everyone’s got their drums out and they’re singing.

" It's just like a festival and we get worshipped for playing football, it's crazy."

"I grew up in England but still had the Nigerian culture. With Black History Month, it’s great people are acknowledging others’ roots and where people come from. 

"It just shows that no matter where we are in the world, we are one."

"I always had the opportunity to go watch my uncle (Okocha) play when he was at Bolton and did see some of his training sessions when Sam Allardyce was the manager.

"Saw him score a free kick against Middlesbrough and was amazing for me and my family as we were at the stadium.

"My first Premier League game was against Swansea, it was for three minutes, I guess I didn't touch the ball more than once as it was a corner kick.

"My first goal Premier League goal was against Everton, I recall I was at Goodison Park, so couldn't celebrate the goal in front of the fans I did it in front of the camera."