'Keep the record going' - Iwobi pays tribute to Okocha, Ameobi after historic 300th PL appearance

Alex Iwobi has etched his name into Premier League history by becoming the first Nigerian player to reach 300 appearances, a remarkable milestone achieved during Fulham's 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United at St James' Park on Saturday. 

The Hale End Academy graduate was named in the starting line-up as the Cottagers were edged out by the Magpies in a tightly contested encounter.

The match featured three other players of Nigerian descent Calvin Bassey, William Osula and Jacob Murphy.

It was Murphy who opened the scoring in the 18th minute, capitalising on an error from Bassey before drilling home from the edge of the area.

Fulham found their equaliser through Sasa Lukic in the 56th minute, and Marco Silva's men looked set to secure a share of the spoils until Bruno Guimaraes struck the decisive goal in the final minute of normal time.

Despite the result, the day held personal significance for Iwobi, who reflected with pride on reaching such a landmark figure.

The Super Eagles midfielder paid heartfelt tribute to two Nigerian icons who paved the way for him, Austin Okocha and Shola Ameobi.

Okocha, a revered figure at Bolton Wanderers, made 124 Premier League appearances, while Newcastle United legend Ameobi appeared in 298 games before retiring.

Speaking to Fulham's website post-match, Iwobi stated: "It's amazing. It's a big achievement to lead that, with the likes of Shola Ameobi and even my uncle [Jay-Jay Okocha] that's participated in the Premier League. 

"It's an honour, but I'm not done yet, I'm going to keep on going and hopefully keep the record going."

Iwobi's 300 Premier League appearances comprise 100 for Arsenal, 123 for Everton and 77 for Fulham.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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