Lampard issues verdict on Alex Iwobi display in Everton win vs Leeds

By Jordan Harris

Frank Lampard has told Everton’s Twitter account that he was not expecting the level of work-rate from Alex Iwobi that he saw in the win over Leeds on Saturday, before labelling his performance outstanding.

The Toffees bounced back in the most impressive fashion following their defeat to Newcastle during the week. They were absolutely outstanding against Marcelo Bielsa’s side at Goodison Park.

There was an amazing atmosphere on Merseyside. And the players gave them something to shout about, with a remarkable display. In truth, the result was never in doubt.

Everton showed more fight, more quality, and so much more passion than their opponents. And perhaps no player proved to be a bigger revelation on the day than Iwobi.

He produced arguably one of his best ever performances for the Toffees as they eased their relegation fears. And it would appear that he even left Lampard surprised with his contribution to the 3-0 victory.

“I think it’s hard to pick a man of the match out of those 11 players. But, for me, Alex was,” he told Everton’s Twitter account. “The reason being the work ethic that he showed, the fitness that he showed throughout the game, and the way he picked up the positions we wanted off the ball, the way he kept wanting to receive the ball and drive and play. He played because he trained so well and that’s something that I always stand strongly behind as a coach.

“When someone trains as well as he has done, and all I want to him to do is have belief and feel the talent that he’s got, I’m not sure I expected that 90 minutes of work-rate. And wow, I thought he was outstanding.”

Lampard will hope he is the Everton manager to finally unlock full potential of Alex Iwobi

Iwobi has often been pointed out as one of the most disappointing signings the club have made in recent years. He has struggled to live up to expectations given that they spent up to £34 million.

He is yet to score more than one league goal in any campaign since moving to Goodison Park. And his game-changing displays have arguably been few and far between.

However, his display against Leeds was special. Obviously, their task was made a lot easier by the fact that the visitors were so poor throughout the 90 minutes.

But that should take nothing away from how good Iwobi and Everton were. And Lampard will now hope that he is the manager to finally unlock the Nigeria international’s full potential.

The early signs are incredibly promising.