Alex Iwobi is changing Everton expectations as huge new role emerges

One of the biggest plus points surrounding Everton over their last few matches has been Alex Iwobi. The Nigeria international has been given his opportunity in the centre of the pitch by Frank Lampard, and has been allowed to shine in that role.

In particular, Blues fans were quick to praise him for his display against Manchester United. Both in terms of work-rate off the ball and quality when in possession, he put in yet another impressive display that was crucial to his side picking up all three points.

And he became a big point of discussion on the latest edition of our Royal Blue Podcast. Host Adam Jones asked both Chris Beesley and Gavin Buckland about Iwobi and just how much the perception of him has changed in recent weeks.

This is probably the most consistent Alex Iwobi we've seen during his time at Everton. Probably the most fit he's looked during his time at Everton I would argue as well.

Frank Lampard is really getting a tune out of him isn't he?

It's just what we've always wanted to see. It's been so frustrating going on and on about Alex Iwobi and rightly so, because we know that there's a talent in there.

Arsene Wenger would not have indulged a player for however many games, he couldn't have got away with it, there's obviously something about him. I think Everton have overpaid for him, but he's not a lost cause, he's a talented player.

Other Everton managers have not been able to tap into that, none of them have really got the best out of him. Now it's a clean slate with Frank Lampard, he's been given a chance and he's working hard.

He might not be the sort of player maybe Evertonians envisaged he would be, or playing in the sort of role - that's been another thing, asking what his best position is.