TheCable

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed that Alex Iwobi chose Nigeria ahead of England because the West African country “were more willing to have him”.

Iwobi, who was born in Nigeria but grew up in London, has in the past year established himself in the Super Eagles set-up.

He scored the vital goal that secured a place for Nigeria at the 2018 World Cup which will be held in Russia.

Prior to becoming a regular for the Eagles, the nephew of Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha had represented England at youth level, but when it was time to woo him, Nigeria pushed harder, Wenger told Arsenal’s website.

“Nigeria were more willing to have him,” he said.

“I’ve seen many times that sons of parents from Nigeria want to go back to their parents’ country.

“He had the potential to play for England and for Nigeria.

“Today he looks very happy with Nigeria. When I speak to him, he’s had very positive experiences.

“He brings his quality to Nigeria – he’s absolutely a creative player going forward. He’s very strong in small spaces and he’s starting to score goals as well.

“For a while it was open between England and Nigeria, and England didn’t really push for Alex during that period.”