Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger urges Alex Iwobi to learn from Henrikh Mkhitaryan

James Benge10 February 2018

Arsene Wenger is convinced Henrikh Mkhitaryan can inspire Alex Iwobi to hit new heights with Arsenal.

Iwobi endured something of a slump over recent months at Arsenal, struggling with the burden of being the main back-up to Mesut Ozil.

However the Nigerian looked reinvigorated in last week’s 5-1 win over Everton, where the left winger continually switched flanks with Mkhitaryan to devastating effect.

Wenger hopes it is the start of a profitable relationship for the Nigerian youngster and former Borussia Dortmund and Manchester United playmaker Mkhitaryan.

“[Mkhitaryan] is a good example to follow because they have similar qualities,” Wenger said. “Alex Iwobi is at the moment moving forward.

“He has had his highs and lows this season, but that is a big part of his age and to see examples like Mkhitaryan will show him the way.”

Though Iwobi was impressive against Everton Mkhitaryan was the star, laying on a trio of assists in the win.

In Pictures | Arsenal vs Everton | 03/02/2018

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It was not only in the final third that Mkhitaryan made a major impact, with the 29-year-old showing the defensive endeavour that would have been expected of him in Manchester as he made four tackles and three interceptions.

It was no surprise to Wenger.

"People don’t know it well but his defensive numbers are quite good,” he said. “I think when you are a team player and you want to win games, you help your team when it needs you.

“Every time you lose the ball you want to win it back, because we love to have the ball but unfortunately to have the ball you have to win it back first.

“That’s why I deeply believe that if you love football, you love to defend because it gives you an opportunity to have the ball and express your talent."

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