From AFCON Red Card to Everton’s Loan List
Super Eagles midfielder, Alex Iwobi has revealed how Frank Lampard rescued his club career at Everton following a tumultuous period that included a sending-off at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations and the looming threat of a loan move under Rafa Benítez.
Speaking candidly about his struggles, Iwobi recounted the low point when, after being sent off in the AFCON round of 16 against Tunisia, he returned to find Everton considering sending him out on loan.
“There was one of the AFCON I got sent off came back they said Alex you’re gonna go on a loan. Although this is Rafa Benitez I wasn’t playing like that innit.”
“So I went AFCON wasn’t really playing then I played in the round of 16, got sent off.”
“Come back thinking oh my God I’m having a mare. I’m going back to heaven I’m probably never gonna play.”
“Hands Down, Lampard Revived My Career”
Alex Iwobi credits Lampard’s arrival at Goodison Park for turning his fortunes around.
“Oh Lampard hands down Lampard revived my career bro.”
Despite Everton initially planning to loan him out again, Iwobi stood his ground.
“Then obviously Rafa Benitez has gone it’s Lampard. Then they’re saying oh Alex you’re gonna go on loan. I’m not gonna say where. I’m not gonna say innit.
I was like no I’m not doing that. I’d rather just chill here and try and fight for my place. If don’t play I don’t play.”
Earning a Clean Slate in Training
According to Iwobi, Lampard’s philosophy of giving every squad member a fresh opportunity reshaped his confidence.
“Lampard gives everyone a chance. In training, I’m a very good training player. So far, you can do in training, why can’t you do this in matches?”
“I’ve been told by previous managers to set the board around. So they go, no, do your thing.”
That encouragement translated into match minutes as Lampard began to trust Iwobi’s talent on the pitch.
Rediscovered Joy: Midfield Freedom
A pivotal moment came when Lampard deployed Alex Iwobi in a more central, on-the-ball midfield role—his preferred position.
“Then Lampard played me, then he put me in midfield where I actually like playing again on the ball. And then he said, yo, express, be you.”
That positional switch allowed Iwobi to showcase his creativity and influence matches regularly.
Impact and Career Resurgence
Iwobi’s form under Lampard saw him regain his rhythm, contribute key performances and remind fans of his Premier League quality.
“Then that’s where I revitalized my career. And my career started playing regularly and making impactful things in the game. So yeah, I’ll say Lampard, man, my best time.”
