Alex Iwobi revealed recently that Kanu is the player who’s inspired him the most as a footballer.

As a young Nigerian international, the 19-year-old revealed he’s spoken to the legend, who, in my opinion, is one of the most underrated players to ever don the Arsenal shirt.

“As a kid, especially playing at Arsenal, I did look up to him,” the forward said to Arsenal Player.

“He was just a classy player and I have spoken to him a few times as well. 

“We have had conversations about Nigeria, about myself and what I need to do. [He says] to just be relaxed and he congratulated me and told me I was doing well. 

“To hear that [praise] from such a player like him is crazy and I just have to prove him right. I don’t feel pressure, it is just a privilege to hear that.”

521868872 jason puncheon of crystal palace holds off gettyimages
LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 17: Jason Puncheon of Crystal Palace holds off pressure from Alex Iwobi of Arsenal during the Barclays Premier League match between Arsenal and Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium on April 17, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Paul Gilham/Getty Images)

It’s brilliant that Iwobi is looking to other Arsenal players for inspiration, especially those as special as Kanu.

Iwobi has broken into the first team in a big way this season. He’s scored two goals since being introduced properly against Barcelona and is one of the few bright sparks in our squad right now. He’s injected energy and passion into a tired team and although there’s only so much he can do, it’s wonderful to see.

Hopefully, the forward can carry on and if he can be anything close to what Kanu was as a player, he’s got a shining career in front of him.