Nigeria international Alex Iwobi is yet to make a debut for Everton after his deadline day move from Arsenal with the Goodison Park faithfuls eagerly waiting to see their £28m-buy but Marco Silva has called for patience from all parties.
Everton manager Marco Silva has asked fans to give Iwobi more time to settle as the forward is also eager to file out for the Toffees and show his quality.
Silva, therefore, opines that the playmaker needs more time before he’s thrown into action, hinting that Iwobi may not be available yet again as Everton tackle Aston Villa on Friday night.
“He is looking forward to that [making his Everton debut]. He started [pre-season] late, this is just his second week working with the team,” Silva said at a press conference.
“We have to take care of the situation and give him enough time to get fitter. He is getting better and if I decide he will be ready, then he will give that high quality. I have no doubt about that.”
In Iwobi’s absence, Everton have played two games, winning one and ending the other in stalemate and are the only side in the Premier League yet to concede a goal after Match Day 2.
Marco Silva believes the players should be commended for that solid defensive record.
“The feeling is really good when we finish a match and haven’t conceded a goal.
“It means we have worked together and are understanding the plans and our way of defending.
“It starts upfront and all of them have to be proud because of the work they are doing.
“I am really proud of what we are achieving with our defensive organisation.”
The manager, however, reveals what he expects from Alex Iwobi and his other attackers once they all get going – a marriage of defensive resilience and an efficient display at the other end of the field.
“We are working to balance things, to try to create more in the opposite box,” said Silva.
“It is up to us to get as many clean sheets as we can, then you are closer to winning matches.
SEE ALSO: Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi Lunches Foundation In Lagos
“And we want to become more clinical in the other box, creating more chances and scoring more goals.”
This article was most recently revised and updated 4 years ago
