Alex Iwobi lauds debuting Super Eagles’ stars after March friendlies

Super Eagles and Fulham midfielder Alex Chuka Iwobi has revealed he was impressed by Emmanuel Fernandez and Chibuike Nwaiwu during Nigeria’s friendlies during the March International break, Afrik Foot reports.

The 29-year-old started in the 2-1 win over Iran, but came off the bench in the 2-2 draw against Jordan, where he was sent off for a rash reaction.

Still, he was impressed with how the two young defenders comported themselves in their first games for the Super Eagles.

Super Eagles debutants: Iwobi delighted with Fernandez and Nwaiwu

Emmanuel Fernandez was a late addition to the squad after Calvin Bassey pulled out with a back injury.

The Rangers centre-back came on for Semi Ajayi in the win over Iran before scoring in the 2-2 draw against Jordan.

Nwaiwu was also brought in after Bassey pulled out, before making his first appearance against Iran.

Speaking on his YouTube Channel, Iwobi apologised to Nigerians for his red card, but also mentioned he was pleased with how the young defenders players.

“Nice to get the 2-1 win against Iran, credit to Iran, they are a good solid team. There were spells where they controlled a lot of possession and I thought this is long.

“Credit to us, we got the two goals we needed to win the game. Shout out to the two centre-backs (Fernandez and Nwaiwu) that played the second half, making their debuts, they did well, they did solid. It was a good performance. The main thing is that we won, that gives us a confidence boost.

“Obviously, I need to address what I did and apologise to all my Nigeria teammates, staff, and everyone who cares about Nigeria. My actions were not good enough, and I got sent off.

“But I have to learn and move on. We got a draw, we didn’t lose the game, so we have to take the positives. I want to apologise for the mistake. At least we didn’t lose any games away, and we take the positives,” the former Arsenal midfielder concluded.

Iwobi’s Fulham are currently ninth on the Premier League table, five points off Liverpool, who are fifth.