BBC Pundit hails 'Okocha-style' assist by Iwobi in Carabao Cup victory

Former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock has praised Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi for his role in Everton's Carabao Cup Round 2 victory.

The Toffees picked up a slim 1-0 victory away at Fleetwood Town on Monday night, to give Frank Lampard's side their first taste of victory in the 2022/23 season.

Like in recent weeks, Iwobi was at the centre of Everton's play as his 28th-minute assist gave Demarai Gray the needed ammunition for the game's only goal.

In the immediate aftermath of the goal, Warnock acknowledged Iwobi's smart play and decision-making to open up the chance for Gray to finish the ball.

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While on radio duty for BBC Sport as reported by tbrfootball, the ex-footballer turned pundit noted that Fleetwood's attempt to play out from the back cost them as they turned over the ball to the pressing Everton side.

Warnock explained: "I said before about playing out from the back and the first time that Fleetwood try it, they get caught."

The former England international then hailed Iwobi for his role in the goal, describing his actions in a manner reminiscent of that of Jay-Jay Okocha or Lionel Messi.

Warnock praised Iwobi's quick thinking and footwork to ride a couple of tackles from the Fleetwood players as well as his positional awareness to lay off the ball to Gray.

"They play a lazy ball into midfield and Dwight McNeil pinches it. He plays it into Iwobi, who shows lovely quick feet to dance away from a couple of challenges," Warnock waxed about Iwobi's play.

“Iwobi looks to get the shot away with his left foot. But then plays a lovely disguised pass into Demarai Gray, who takes a little touch and then produces a clinical finish into the far corner.”

This was Iwobi's first goal contribution of the 2022/23 season, whilst retaining his central midfield role where he has excelled in recent weeks.

The Super Eagles star will hope to continue his fine form for the Toffees when they visit Brentford in the Premier League on Saturday, August 27.