Alex Iwobi has been told by Nwankwo Kanu that he is a “star in his own right” and needs to embrace such a standing at Arsenal. “For me he’s a special kid.

Arsenal know the quality he has got and they know he can deliver on that eventually”.

Nigeria’s forward Alex Iwobi heads the ball during a training session at the Essentuki Arena, southern Russia, on June 18, 2018 during the Russia 2018 World Cup football tournament. / AFP PHOTO /

The 22-year-old is a product of a famed academy system in north London, having linked up with the Gunners as a schoolboy.

He has graduated through the ranks to make 98 senior appearances, but is yet to show his full potential on a consistent basis at club level.

Iwobi has no such problems when representing his country, having become a talismanic presence for Nigeria, and his fellow countryman wants to see him fill a similar role domestically.

Former Arsenal striker Kanu told Standard Sport: “In Arsenal you have big, big names. I don’t think he sees himself in that way.

“When I talk with him I want him to feel that way.