Alex Iwobi suffers harsh fate but Everton hope emerges after West Ham United defeat

Alex Iwobi suffered a cruel twist of fate as West Ham United profited from his mistake in the build up to their winner at the London Stadium.

Pablo Fornals took advantage of his error to release Michail Antonio and start the move that ended up with Jarrod Bowen slotting home. It was an unfortunate setback for a player who had sent Goodison Park wild as recently as the club’s last Premier League fixture.

It was a shame for Iwobi, whose industrious performance saw him press well as he was given a rare opportunity higher up the pitch. The 25-year-old’s pride over his 99th minute winner against Newcastle was clear as he recalled it in press interviews last week.

He said: “It was crazy, the scenes were amazing. I wish I could describe it but in the moment it was one of those feelings you wish never disappears. The main thing for us is we want to have that atmosphere all of the time so we need to keep working to make sure there are many more feelings like that.”

It was a landmark moment for a player who has struggled for consistency during his time at Everton and a goal that - if the club stays up - will be looked back upon as one of the most important of the season. Iwobi appeared aware that his full potential has not been unlocked and there was room for “improvement”, but hopeful the goal would provide a platform for success.

He said: “At the moment I feel like I'm on a high, I feel like I've done well since Frank has come in so far. Obviously the results haven't been there to match but I'm feeling in a good place and a good head space and hopefully it continues but turns into getting results for the team like the game against Newcastle.”

Opportunities to play in his favoured positions have been at a premium, but he is