Sam Sodje Praises Alex Iwobi, Says Super Eagles Midfielder Deserves More Recognition
Former Super Eagles defender Sam Sodje has praised Alex Iwobi for his consistency and contribution to Nigerian football over the years.
Iwobi has remained one of the most dependable players in the Super Eagles squad since making his debut for Nigeria in 2015 during a friendly defeat against the Democratic Republic of Congo after replacing Ahmed Musa in the second half.
Since then, the Fulham midfielder has gone on to make 99 appearances for Nigeria, placing him third on the country’s all-time appearance list. He is now closing in on Ahmed Musa’s record of 111 caps.
At club level, Iwobi has also enjoyed a successful career in the English Premier League. The 30-year-old has played 318 Premier League matches, the highest by any Nigerian player and the third-most by an African footballer in the competition’s history.
Speaking in an interview with Footy-Africa, Sodje said Iwobi deserves greater respect for what he has achieved with both club and country.
“I think he has done really well because when he first came to the national team, his ability was questioned because of his uncle (Jay-Jay Okocha). But I think he has improved so much because of the career he has had in England,” Sodje said.
The former Brentford defender also praised Iwobi’s experience and importance to the national team.
“We have to give him a lot of respect. He has become a very experienced and important player for the national team,” he added.
Sodje further explained that many fans may not fully appreciate Iwobi’s qualities, but former players understand his importance better because of his tactical discipline and understanding of the game.
“I would rate him among the best because he is a player that follows instructions and understands the technical side of football,” Sodje stated.
Iwobi recently achieved another milestone in the Premier League after becoming the first Nigerian player to record at least 35 goals and 38 assists in the competition. He also passed the 300-game mark earlier this season, strengthening his reputation as one of Nigeria’s most experienced stars in England.
