U21s: Arsenal v Fulham - Preview

Alex Iwobi has had quite a summer.

After ending the 2014/15 season in scintillating form with seven goals in the under-21s’ last five games, the 19-year-old was given the chance to train with the first team when he returned to London Colney.

Iwobi impressed and was named in Arsene Wenger’s tour squad to Asia, where he made his Arsenal debut against a Singapore Select XI. However, the best was yet to come as the forward scored his first senior goal against Lyon in the Emirates Cup.

Now Iwobi has a chance to return to the scene of that goal when Arsenal Under-21s host Fulham on Friday, but that is not the teenager’s only fond memory of playing at Emirates Stadium.

“It was probably one of my first games playing up front for the under-21s,” he told Arsenal Player. “We were playing Stoke City at the Emirates and I scored a hat-trick in front of the North Bank.

“That kick-started my goalscoring streak and I’ve proven I can score now. Playing on the wing, I always used to aim for assists but when I’m playing up front it’s all about the goals. I’ve got a few tricks in my locker as well so hopefully I add a little bit of flavour to the team.

“I just can’t believe what I’m doing right now and I have to remember that I’m still only 19, so I’m just taking it step by step,” added Iwobi.

“I’ve enjoyed everything that’s happened so far but there’s still much more to come from me. Hopefully I can pick up my goalscoring form from the first game and have another successful season.

“I would like to hopefully play a few games here and there, hopefully be involved in the Capital One Cup, so it’s just about trying to get into the first team.

“Hector [Bellerin] went out on loan at Watford, did well there, and then he took his chance against Borussia Dortmund. The rest is history, he’s been doing his job really well and he’s a real inspiration for me.”

Arsenal Under-21s host Fulham at Emirates Stadium on Friday. Kick-off is at 7pm and you can buy tickets here