Mesut Ozil had high praise for Alex Iwobi recently, comparing him to his uncle, Jay-Jay Okocha, and applauding the fact that he never hides on the pitch.

Iwobi’s level head during his rapid rise is a testament to the influences he has in his life and this doesn’t just go for the likes of Arsene Wenger and the people he surrounds himself with at the club but the people outside of it too.

Jay-Jay Okocha, Iwobi’s uncle, had a career that spread over almost two decades. He played for top European clubs like Fenerbahce and PSG, as well as the Nigeria national team. Having an accomplished player like that in his life, one that Mesut Ozil says that Iwobi reminds him of, must be a huge help for a young starlet.

Speaking to Arsenal Player, Ozil also compared Iwobi to another footballer, Edgar Davids.

He went on to praise the 20-year-old. Claiming that he never hides away from the ball, which he doesn’t.

“He knows exactly what he can do. He isn’t scared and doesn’t hide on the pitch,” Ozil said.

“He just wants to have fun playing football and that really shows on the pitch, and also in training.

“He’s developing really well and if he continues the way he’s been playing the whole season, he will really enhance his game. The manager knows exactly how good he is and I wish him all the best. He is really young and is on a really good path.”

High praise indeed coming from Mesut Ozil.