Alex Iwobi bagged his first goal of the season in a decent performance against Brighton.

The 21-year-old received his second Premier League start of the season, coming in for the injured Mesut Ozil and Danny Welbeck.

Playing behind the striker, much of Arsenal’s first half play went through him as he typically drifted into pockets of space and knitted our play together. He also demonstrated his strong running with the ball and was able to craft a good scoring opportunity for himself. He had two shots on target during the first half, but despite hitting the target his shots lacked conviction.

That wasn’t the case in the second half.

He became less influential in Arsenal’s build-up play, but was able to ghost in behind the Brighton defence to get on the end of Alexis’ back-heel. With time to pick his spot, he put his foot through the ball and found the top corner. Arsene Wenger expects more goals from Iwobi and he’ll get them if he can continue to finish with such aplomb.

Overall, Iwobi had a decent return to the first team.

According to WhoScored, he completed 90% of his 42 passes, including two key passes. He also completed two of his three attempted dribbles. However, he managed the second-fewest touches of Arsenal’s outfield players, which was indicative of his fading influence in the game.

Iwobi was eventually replaced by Theo Walcott in the 71st minute, but would have been pleased with his day’s work.

A thigh injury prevented him from appearing against West Brom and BATE Borisov, but he’ll surely be in Wenger’s thinking when Arsenal visit Waford after the international break.