Everton star on Super Eagles radar speaks on Arsenal loss, targets Chelsea win

Everton midfielder Tim Iroegbunam has admitted that his side were left deeply disappointed after their tough defeat to Arsenal, Afrik-Foot reports.

The former England youth international, however, believes the team can take confidence from their performance as they prepare for a big clash with Chelsea.

The 22-year-old midfielder was one of Everton’s standout players despite the 2-0 loss in north London. David Moyes’s side pushed the Premier League leaders for long periods before two late goals broke their resistance.

Everton created several promising moments and, for much of the match, looked capable of taking something from the game. However, goals from Viktor Gyokeres in the 89th minute and Max Dowman with the final kick of the match sealed victory for the hosts.

Iroegbunam had been recalled to the starting line-up in defensive midfield, with James Garner moving to right-back. The young midfielder impressed with his energy and determination, winning more duels than any Everton player on the pitch with nine and also creating one big chance.

He worked closely with experienced teammate Idrissa Gueye and fellow midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall as Everton tried to compete with one of the strongest midfields in the league.

Speaking after the match, Iroegbunam stressed that his main focus is to make the most of every opportunity he gets.

“I have played now and then so what I do is try and just work hard, do well at what I do well and try and make a difference when I get the opportunity to play,” he told Everton’s club media.

“I know my strengths and how good of a player I am, so it’s just about being consistent and applying that in all of the games or when I get opportunities.”

The midfielder has become an increasingly important figure for Everton this season. After joining from Aston Villa, he has gradually grown in confidence under Moyes and is enjoying what many see as a breakthrough campaign.

He played a central role in Everton’s tactical plan at the Emirates Stadium and helped the visitors frustrate Arsenal for long periods before his late substitution.

Looking ahead, Iroegbunam is already focused on Everton’s next challenge.

“We’ve got a big game with Chelsea next week so we have just got to go again at home, give it all we have got and hopefully it doesn’t end the way it did [against Arsenal].”

Super Eagles watching as Everton’s Iroegbunam impresses

Iroegbunam’s strong performances in the Premier League have not gone unnoticed beyond England. The midfielder is now on the radar of Eric Chelle, the head coach of Nigeria’s Nigeria national football team.

The Nigerian football authorities are closely monitoring his progress as they consider potential additions to the national team’s midfield options.

Born in England but of Nigerian heritage, Iroegbunam has previously represented England at youth level. Because of that, he would need to apply to FIFA for a formal change of international association before he can play for Nigeria.

This administrative process means Nigeria’s upcoming friendlies against Jordan and Iran may arrive too soon for him to be involved, even if he decides to commit to the Super Eagles.

Still, the interest reflects how well he has performed this season. Iroegbunam has already made 22 appearances in the Premier League campaign, registering three assists and establishing himself as a reliable option in Everton’s midfield.

With injuries affecting parts of the squad and Everton pushing to finish the season strongly, his role could become even more important in the weeks ahead.

If he continues to produce performances like the one against Arsenal, Iroegbunam may soon face an exciting decision, whether to pursue a future with England or answer a possible call from Nigeria’s Super Eagles.