Arsenal star Alex Iwobi has revealed that his uncle and Nigerian football great Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha is his Premier League idol.
Iwobi has had an exponential rise in football since he was promoted to the Arsenal first team in 2015.
This season, the 20-year-old has become a regular for Arsenal and his performances have drawn praises from several quarters.
Speaking to the Premier League media channel, the Nigeria international says Jay Jay Okocha is his mentor.
Asked who his Premier League idol was, Iwobi chose his uncle Okocha who once played and captain Bolton Wanderers.
“It definitely has to be my uncle,” the Arsenal forward said.
“He is someone I can talk to and help me not just on the pitch but off the pitch.”
As a kid growing in football crazy London, who else for Iwobi to look up to than his very own uncle, Jay Jay Okocha.
Iwobi was between the ages of six and 10 when his uncle was pulling the strings in Bolton’s midfield.
“Growing up he was my idol, he did help me and advised me a lot.” Iwobi added.
Now a bonafide football star, it is not a surprise to see Jay Jay Okocha proud of his mentee and actually his number one fan.
But that is still surreal for Iwobi.
The Super Eagles forward can’t believe that a player he grew up idolizing is now his biggest fan.
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