Ex-England International Says Alex Iwobi Is The Hardest Worker In The Premier League But Casts Doubt On His Quality

Published: August 13, 2019

Former Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa forward Darren Bent has criticized Alex Iwobi’s ability following the Nigerian’s move from Arsenal to Everton.

The former England international is now retired, having announced as much in July. And, while he claims that Iwobi is a great teammate, he doesn’t reckon he has enough quality to make significant contributions in the final third.

Iwobi made 51 appearances under Unai Emery in all competitions last season, scoring six times and assisting nine goals.

But he’s since joined the Toffees on a five-year deal, with the Gunners making a reported £28 million off his sale.

Bent was born in London and is an Arsenal supporter. However, he says he’s never been big on Iwobi.

“I’m an Arsenal fan and I’ve never been Iwobi’s biggest fan,” Bent told Football Insider in an exclusive interview.

“My thing with people has always been quality on the ball. Whether it was his final cross or his shot on goal, it was always under-hit or there was never really any quality there.

“He’d do the hard stuff, go past someone, and you’d want him to make the right decision, but he never seemed to get it right. I wouldn’t say he’s better than Richarlison because he gives you goals, he’s got a bit more quality.”

Bent did admit that the former Gunner is a dedicated player whose work ethic knows no match.

“If you talk about work ethic, attitude towards the game, I don’t think there’s anyone better," he continued. “I think he always works hard, always gives 100 per cent.

Iwobi is yet to make his debut for Everton, having gotten an extended break for his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations but he could be involved in the action when the Toffees take on Watford this coming Saturday after missing the 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Bet365 is offering 4/6 odds on an Everton Win and 15/4 on the Hornets coming out on top. A draw is 3/1 with William Hill.

Fans keen on placing bets for this upcoming clash, as well as other long term punts on Everton, would do well to visit freebets.com. The site has free bets on offer and punters can take advantage of betting tips and other new signup incentives.

Everton are long shots to win the Premier League title this season at 250/1with Paddy Power and Sky Bet has 500/1 on their chances of lifting the title.

They’re among the favourites in terms of teams not considered top-flight big fish tipped to stay up, with Betvictor offering odds of 1/250.

Bet365, meanwhile, has 40/1 on a relegation campaign for Marco Silva’s side, while Ladbrokes has odds of 4/1 on them finishing in the top six.

Silva will take his time to decide whether or not will Iwobi feature against Watford this weekend.

The player, meanwhile, will be itching to prove his doubters wrong as he looks to open a new chapter at Goodison Park.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : evertonfc.com