Fulham and Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has etched his name into Premier League history, matching Shola Ameobi’s record as the Nigerian with the most appearances in England’s top flight. In this conversation with SuperSport, Iwobi reflects on reaching that landmark, his hopes for the national team, and what it’s like sharing a club with fellow Nigerians.
You’re just one step away from holding the record for the most Premier League appearances by a Nigerian. How does that feel, and what’s been the secret behind your consistency?
It feels really special, to be honest. I don’t usually stop to think about how many games I’ve played — I just go out there and enjoy football. But when I sit down with my family and we talk about it, I realize how far I’ve come. To be mentioned alongside someone like Shola Ameobi, who’s a true Premier League legend, means a lot. And knowing I’ve reached that number in fewer seasons gives me extra motivation to keep going and set a record that will stand for a while.
Do you believe Nigeria will qualify for the next World Cup?
Absolutely. We all have that belief. If we didn’t, we wouldn’t be putting in the work we do. Everyone in the team wants it badly, and we just hope our fans keep believing and supporting us through it all.
Now that you’ve got two fellow Nigerians — Calvin Bassey and Samuel Chukwueze — in the Fulham squad, what’s that like on and off the pitch?
It’s a great feeling. Having Samuel join us adds even more energy. He’s not just a top player, he’s a solid guy off the pitch too. With Calvin already here, it’s like we’ve formed our own little Naija connection at Fulham. People joke that we’re ‘Naija FC’ now — and it kind of feels that way. But it’s really about enjoying football together and representing our country with pride wherever we are.
If you, Bassey, and Chukwueze all make it to the AFCON, what would that mean to you?
It would be massive. Every tournament is about improving on your last performance, and for us, that means going all the way. Everyone’s hungry to win, so we’ll give everything we’ve got to make that happen.
Thinking back to your childhood, what Premier League moment from an African player inspired you most?
For me, it has to be something my uncle, Jay-Jay Okocha, did. I remember watching him when he was at Bolton under Sam Allardyce. There was this game against West Ham where he ran the full length of the pitch and scored a screamer. That goal stuck with me. I told myself, “One day, I want to do what he’s done — or even more.” Moments like that are what made me fall in love with football.
