By Tam McManus

26th Mar, 2023 | 8:30am

Pundit drops 'critical' Alex Iwobi verdict after Everton source's reveal

Alex Iwobi has become a ‘critical’ player for Everton and is deserving of a long-term deal at Goodison Park.

That is the opinion of former Hibernian striker Tam McManus, who exclusively told Football Insider that he has been impressed by Everton’s 26-year-old midfielder this season.

Football Insider sources revealed on Wednesday (22 March) that Everton are in advanced talks with Iwobi over a new contract.

Iwobi signed a five-year deal with the Toffees in 2019 following a move from Arsenal, and Sean Dyche was keen to tie the Nigerian international down to a new contract.

He has started all 28 Premier League matches for the Blues this season, scoring once and assisting six times to help Everton climb to 15th in the table.

McManus was left disappointed by Iwobi during his first few seasons at the club but believes he is now growing to become a fan favourite.

“I’ve been impressed by Iwobi this season, although I was disappointed by him when he first arrived under Frank Lampard,” McManus told Football Insider.

“He has played every game this season for Everton.

“Started all 28 league games, so he’s obviously a critical player for the club.

“He needs to score more goals, that’s where he has to improve. 

“Iwobi has only scored one this season and Everton will need more output from him.

“But it seems that Sean Dyche likes him and he’s entering the last year of his contract.

“He’s playing every week and he’s becoming a fan favourite at Goodison Park so it’s a no-brainer that they should tie him down to a long-term deal.“

In other news, Everton make Neal Maupay available for transfer