“Resurrected my career” - Super Eagles star hails Chelsea legend for turnaround

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has spoken about the influence of Chelsea legend Frank Lampard on his career during their time at Everton, Afrik-Foot reports.

Iwobi joined Everton from Arsenal in 2019 and initially struggled to settle under more experienced managers including Carlo Ancelotti and Rafael Benítez. However, things began to change when Lampard arrived at the Merseyside club in January 2022.

Although he was first used as a right wing-back during the early days of the former Chelsea midfielder’s reign, the 29-year-old became more influential after he was moved into central midfield, where he became one of Everton’s most best players.

Alex Iwobi during the Premier League match between Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur at Craven Cottage. Photo by IMAGO

His impressive performances also earned him the Players’ Player of the Season award, even though Lampard was later replaced by Sean Dyche before the end of the campaign.

The Super Eagles midfielder later moved to Fulham at the end of the season and he has continued to thrive under Marco Silva. Meanwhile, Lampard has gone on to guide Coventry City to promotion back to the Premier League after a 25-year absence.

Super Eagles star hails Lampard’s influence on career

Frank Lampard at Coventry City — Frank Lampard celebrates. Photo by IMAGO

Alex Iwobi has enjoyed a remarkable turnaround since he worked with Lampard at Everton and has carried that form since also moving to Fulham, where he has also enjoyed life under Marco Silva.

Speaking on the Beast Mode On Podcast, the Super Eagles midfielder did not hold back in praising the impact of the Chelsea legend on his career.

“For my career, Lampard. He resurrected my career. I say it all the time to my people, I had my most enjoyable time playing football, even though don’t get me wrong, it wasn’t at Arsenal, I enjoyed my football the most with Lampard”, Iwobi said.

“Like I felt so free. I also enjoy with Marco Silva don’t get it twisted, but because of where I was before mentally and where Lampard got me to now in football.”

Iwobi’s focus for now is on recovery and hoping to return in time for Fulham in the final stretch of the campaign, after picking up an injury during the goalless draw with Brentford last weekend.