Iwobi says Welbeck's injury affected Arsenal players against Sporting

The Gunners were held to a goalless draw by Portuguese outfit  Sporting CP in their fourth Europa League on Thursday, November 8.

Alex Iwobi stats

Despite the draw, Arsenal are top of the group with 10 points and have progressed to the round of 32 of the competition.

The Gunners, however, could not bounce back from a draw against Liverpool in their last Premier League fixture.

They had to watch as Welbeck had to be removed for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the 30th minute due to an injury.

Iwobi on Welbeck

Speaking to after the game, Iwobi outlined the reasons or another draw in front of their home supporters at the Emirates Stadium.

He said, “It is mentally challenging [playing on after a team-mate is badly injured] but sometimes it comes with the game, and Danny [Welbeck] has had a lot of injuries.

“We wish him the best and will keep on encouraging and motivating him to get back.”

He rued the missed opportunities in the game and also stated that they are already looking forward to the next game.

Iwobi said, “We have to give credit to Sporting and they were compact but we lacked a bit of composure, even from myself.

“It was sad as Pierre [Aubameyang] was through, but it was a smart challenge from [Jeremy] Mathieu and unfortunate for us as we weren’t able to get the goal.

“We will go again at Wolves which we know won’t be easy as they have started the season well.”

Arsenal vs Sporting stats

Iwobi and his Arsenal teammates take on Wolverhampton Wanderers at home on Sunday, November 11.