Arsenal and Alex Iwobi: Awkward, uncomfortable, but perfect away from home

Alex Iwobi looked awkward and uncomfortable during Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Watford. And yet, he was extremely effective. He is the perfect winger away from home.

Alex Iwobi never quite looks like he has the ball under his control. Like a gangly mess of long limbs and uncontrolled legs, almost a little like a spider trying to push a shopping trolley, the 22-year-old seems to bundle his way into space rather than float with the same elegance as many of his Arsenal teammates.

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While possessing inherently quick feet, this fleetness of his movement often seems clumsy, not silky. He has the skill to embarrass opponents at times, but the purpose of his manipulation of the ball is sometimes lacking, especially when he gets close to the penalty area.

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This seeming panic is what leads many to question whether Iwobi has the ability to contribute on a consistent basis. His limp shooting and errant crossing have long been the butt of a rather unwanted joke. Arsene Wenger frequently stated that for Iwobi to develop his game, he must improve the number of goals and assists that he produces. And Unai Emery laid down the same challenge last summer.

But this season, Iwobi has enhanced this area of his game. He is not yet a prolific scorer or assister, but his three goals and four assists in the league is an improved tally given his lack of minutes. And he has also forged a role for himself away from home, where his industry has been most useful. This was perfectly illustrated in Monday night’s win over Watford.

Iwobi again looked uncomfortable at times. His miscued a few crosses. He took th And yet, he was Arsenal’s best attacking player on the day. He created seven chances in total — no other player created more than two — and he was a consistent outlet down the left, with his dribbling ability helping to relieve pressure, especially in the second half.

Iwobi does not always look like the most accomplished player. Even when his skilful play works, he still manages to look slightly ungainly. But he is the perfect player to feature away from home in the wide attacking role. Physically strong and athletically willing, he runs hard without the ball and plays with the right mentality that Emery has spoken about regarding his team’s away struggles.

The Nigerian never will be a world-class footballer. He simply does not have the requisite cutting edge in the key moments, and it does not look like he is able to develop it. But that does not mean that he lacks any value or utility. He has plenty, especially away from home.

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Uncomfortable? Yes. Awkward? Absolutely. But exceptionally effective and perfect away from home, and he proved it yet again on Monday.

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