Just like Okocha — Iwobi compares football-loving father to Super Eagles legend

Just like Okocha — Iwobi compares football-loving father to Super Eagles legend

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 09:39 - 26.02.2025

Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has compared his father to Super Eagles legend Austin Jay Jay Okocha.

Super Eagles of Nigeria and Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has opened up about the early days of his football career and the role his father played in supporting his dreams.

Iwobi started out at Arsenal’s Hale End Football Academy before breaking into the first team and establishing himself as one of the brightest young talents around.

The 28-year-old then moved to Everton, where he was transformed into a versatile midfielder before finally landing a move to Fulham.

Speaking on the Fulham Fix Podcast, Iwobi spoke about his early days and how his career started.

"My parents said I could run before I started walking. They told me I’d sit down, and in a split second, I’d sprint around the flat and they were thinking this baby is on crack.

Alex Iwobi evades defenders in the game against West Ham.
Alex Iwobi at Craven Cottage.

“When I was a kid, I was very excited, used to run around, slide tackle balloons, kick chairs, kick anything in sight, so, I was just an energetic weird child,”

Iwobi also spoke about his father's support and jokingly admits that his father's enthusiasm can sometimes be a bit embarrassing.

"You should see my dad, in the house, he's always wearing a training kit or my jersey, always ready to go, but sometimes it's embarrassing. If we go out, he's wearing a jersey with the big Iwobi at the back and I tell him to chill, but he's just proud."

Despite his father's enthusiasm, Iwobi appreciates his dad's support and understanding of the game.

"He doesn't go into detail about my game. He knows football because he played in Nigeria, like my uncle [Jay-Jay Okocha], so he understands. Nowadays, he just says well done."

Iwobi has arguably been Fulham's player of the season, contributing 7 goals and providing 3 assists as the Cottagers push for a European finish.