Five things you need to know about future Arsenal great Alex Iwobi

Alex Iwobi was the star of the show as Arsenal cruised past Stoke City in their Under-21s clash, with the young forward bagging a hat-trick during their 4-1 win.

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Here are five things you should know about Alex Iwobi:

5) He won’t be representing England

The 18-year-old has represented England at a number of differing youth levels, but has chosen to play for Nigeria at senior level. He is yet to make an appearance for the Super Eagles, but as soon as the Nigerian FA get clearance from FIFA he will be eligible, according to the BBC.

4) Incredibly versatile

The youngster started out as a winger, but has been utilised more as a striker and as an attacking midfielder recently.

It’s clearly working well for him, as he was dominant in a striking role against Stoke.

3) He’s been a Gunner for ten years

Iwobi has spent his entire career at Arsenal, and has been a Gunner since he was eight.

2) Kanu is his idol

The Lagos born star is a huge fan of Nwankwo Kanu, who is one of the main reasons he has chosen to turn out for Nigeria.

“Austin Okocha and Nwankwo Kanu have influenced my decision to play for Nigeria,” he said (via the Daily Mail)

1) Family ties

Iwobi has football in his blood, as his uncle is none other than former Bolton and Hull City star Jay-Jay Okocha.

He claims the retired Nigerian star has played a huge part in his career.

“I played a lot with him when I was young and he taught me a lot of skills,” he said, on Arsenal.com.

“When he was playing for Bolton I used to play with him in his back garden. I also used to go and watch him when he was at Bolton and a little bit when he was at Hull.

“He was always giving me advice on how to play, and just last week he told me to try to express myself when I’m on the pitch.”