Iwobi: Why Benitez denied me playing time

Everton midfielder Alex Iwobi has revealed that Spanish manager Rafael Benitez informed him to leave the club if he wanted game time as he considered him not good enough to make the Toffees starting line-up.

The former Liverpool boss was sacked by the Toffees in January and the arrival of Frank Lampard turned things around for the 26-year-old.

The ex-Gunner man has by some margins being the best player at Goodison Park under the former Chelsea player and manager.

“He [Rafael Benitez] told me I should leave Everton. I said I’d rather stay and fight for my place, and take my chances when they come, Iwobi told Liverpool Echo.

“I was told by him that I wasn’t good enough, but I wanted to stay and showcase my ability. I’m delighted I have done that,” the Super Eagle added.

Iwobi has featured prominently for Everton this season with brilliant performances week-in and week-out for the Merseyside club.

The Nigerian international has managed 1 goal and 6 assists for the Toffees in 14 Premier League outings this term, only Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne has more assists.

He has also been rated the best passer in the PL as a forward.

WDN