When Paul Onuachu made his debut for Southampton in February, he became the eighth Nigerian player to feature in the English Premier League for the 2022/23 season.
The Premier League now has as many Nigerian players appearing in the division than Serie A in Italy (8). With plenty of Nigerian talent on show in England’s top flight, some have performed better than others.
Below we have picked our top three shining Super Eagles from the Premier League so far this season.
Alex Iwobi, 26
Everton, Midfielder
Despite Everton struggling in recent times, after narrowly escaping relegation to the Championship last season when they finished 16th, and they currently sitting third from bottom this term, Alex Iwobi has been one of the few stars in the Toffee side over the past 18 months.
The Nigerian 26-year-old has proven his worth in a more central role for most the season, where he has excelled. Since Sean Dyche took over as Everton manager, Iwobi has been moved to the right of midfield, but put in an excellent, hard-working display in the recent win against Arsenal. Iwobi has started all 22 Premier League games so far, totalling seven goal contributions.
Joe Aribo, 26
Southampton, Midfielder
Joe Aribo earned himself a move to the Premier League in the summer, when Southampton came calling after an impressive spell in Scotland with Rangers, and despite the Saints finding it difficult in the league sitting bottom of the table, the midfielder has also been one of the standout performers in a struggling side.
The 26-year-old has shown fans what he can do in the opening half of the campaign, and after his impressive numbers in Scotland last term, he might well have a vital role to play in the second half of the season if the Saints want to remain in the top flight.
Kelechi Iheanacho, 26
Leicester City, Striker
Kelechi Iheanacho makes our list following excellent recent form. The Super Eagles star made his first Premier League start of the year against Aston Villa earlier in February, scoring one and assisting two.
Then in the thrashing of Spurs, Iheanacho scored and assisted one, with his goal a sublime finish from the edge of the box. He has scored in each of his three league starts this season, taking his overall tally for the Foxes to more than 50 and surely cementing his spot in the side for the next run of games.
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