Alex Iwobi: 2 stats showing why Fulham rely on Nigeria star

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Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has continued to establish himself as one of Fulham’s most important players, with his performances making him a key figure for the Premier League side.

Iwobi joined the Cottagers from Everton in 2023 and has since developed into one of the club’s most consistent performers. 

The 30-year-old has gone on to make 121 appearances across all competitions, scoring 20 goals, including the winner in Fulham’s first Premier League victory of the season when they defeated Hull City 1-0 in October.

Aled Iwobi rank among African players with the most Premier League appearances
Alex Iwobi. Copyright: xDennisxGoodwinxImago

His performances have made it increasingly difficult for manager Marco Silva to leave him out of the starting lineup, as he continues to deliver in different areas of the pitch.

Beyond his technical qualities, the Nigerian midfielder has also shown remarkable consistency and versatility, making him an important part of Fulham’s setup.

Why Alex Iwobi has become undroppable for Fulham

Iwobi’s growing influence at Craven Cottage has also reflected in his performances this season, with his contributions going beyond scoring and creating goals.

According to Football Insider, the Super Eagles midfielder has become an increasingly important player for Fulham and there are two key statistics that explains why the Cottagers rely so heavily on him.

Alex Iwobi of Fulham Premier League best playmakers
Alex Iwobi of Fulham. Copyright: David Klein / SportimagexImago

1. Iwobi has created 24 chances in the Premier League this season

One of the biggest strengths Iwobi brings to Fulham is his ability to create opportunities for his teammates.

The Nigerian midfielder leads the way among Premier League midfielders for expected assists (xA), highlighting the quality and frequency of the chances he creates.

His numbers also shows his importance as one of Fulham’s major creative outlets in the middle of the pitch, where he helps link the team’s build-up play with its attacking movements.

Iwobi has consistently shown that he can pick out teammates in dangerous positions and create opportunities, even when those chances are not converted.

The 30-year-old has gone on to create 24 chances in the English top-flight this season, becoming one of Premier League’s best playmakers.

Super Eagles stars Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi
Calvin Bassey of Fulham celebrates with Alex Iwobi. Photo Credit: ImagoxDavid Klein / Sportimage

While his teammates have not always made the most of the opportunities he provides, his creativity remains an important part of Fulham’s attacking approach.

2. Iwobi has featured in all 10 of Fulham’s EPL games this season

Another major reason Fulham depend on Iwobi is his remarkable consistency and availability. The 30-year-old has continued to make himself available for selection, featuring in all of Fulham’s matches this season and providing Alvaro Arbeloa with a reliable option in midfield.

Iwobi’s versatility is another major advantage. The Super Eagles star can operate in central midfield, in a more advanced role and out wide, giving Arbeloa different options depending on the team’s tactical needs.

Declan Rice of Arsenal left and Alex Iwobi of Fulham
Declan Rice of Arsenal left and Alex Iwobi of Fulham. Copyright: ImagoxVisionhausx

Iwobi has become one of the most dependable players in Fulham’s squad and his influence continues to grow, while his performances also explained why Fulham have increasingly relied on the Super Eagles star.

<!-- Author Start -->Ayomide Oguntimehin<!-- Author End -->

Ayomide Oguntimehin

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Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng & Afrik Foot. Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, Topmercato, and Milan News24, among others. He holds a master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X: @ayo_oguntimehin.