Former England forward Darren Bent believes Everton new boy Alex Iwobi lacks the quality needed to be a success at Goodison Park.
Bent questioned Everton’s decision to sign the former Arsenal player and believes Richarlison is a much better option for the Toffees.
Iwobi featured regularly for the Gunners last season, amassing 51 appearances across all competitions but the Nigeria international contributed just six goals and nine assists.
As a result, Unai Emery was willing to let the player join Marco Silva’s side for an initial £28 million following Arsenal’s club-record £72 million signing of fellow winger Nicolas Pepe.
As an Arsenal supporter, Bent saw Iwobi play on a regular basis and told Football Insider that he was not impressed by the 23-year-old’s displays in north London.
“I’m an Arsenal fan and I’ve never been Iwobi’s biggest fan,” Bent said.
“My thing with people has always been quality on the ball.
“Whether it was his final cross or his shot on goal, it was always under-hit or there was never really any quality there.
“He’d do the hard stuff, go past someone, and you’d want him to make the right decision, but he never seemed to get it right.
“I wouldn’t say he’s better than Richarlison because he gives you goals, he’s got a bit more quality.”
However, Bent did admit that Iwobi’s work ethic and dedication is excellent and that his new Everton team-mates will love playing alongside him.
“If you talk about work ethic, attitude towards the game, I don’t think there’s anyone better,” he added.
“I think he always works hard, always gives 100 per cent.
“He’s one of those guys you want in your team because he works hard and does everybody else’s running.
“He probably is the perfect teammate with regards to his work ethic and attitude because he leads by example and work ethic.”
Iwobi is yet to make his Everton debut, with the forward being given an extended break because of his Africa Cup of Nations participation.
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