… Becomes 5th African to reach major PL milestone

Alex Iwobi has said he still has more to offer after he made a record 300th appearance in the Premier League.

Iwobi clocked his 300th Premier League outing at Newcastle United Saturday to become the first Nigerian star to achieve this milestone.

He said it is a big achievement, but believes there is still some more in his tank.

“It’s amazing,” he told fulhamfc.com

“It’s a big achievement to lead that, with the likes of Shola Ameobi and even my uncle (Jay Jay Okocha) that’s participated in the Premier League.

“It’s an honour, but I’m not done yet, I’m going to keep on going and hopefully keep the record going.”

Iwobi, who played the full 90 minutes before a late substitution, delivered a lively performance filled with energy and intent.

He registered 51 touches, 44 passes, two crosses and two attempts at goal, yet Fulham was denied a point when Bruno Guimarães struck late, leaving Marco Silva’s side empty-handed in a match the club believes it deserves more from.

The milestone also deepens Iwobi’s legacy. Before kick-off, the 29-year-old had already surpassed Shola Ameobi as the Nigerian with the most Premier League appearances.

Now on 300 games, he becomes only the fifth African to reach the mark, joining Kolo Touré, Mohamed Salah, Jordan Ayew and Wilfried Zaha in an exclusive group.

Despite the defeat, Alex Iwobi expressed pride in his achievement — but also frustration with the result.

Iwobi’s milestone continues a pattern of record-breaking moments. In 2024, he surpassed John Obi Mikel for most Premier League minutes by a Nigerian, and earlier this year he became the first African to make 50 Premier League appearances for three different clubs.

However, speaking on game with Newcastle, Iwobi insisted that the focus now shifts to bouncing back as they push for a stronger league position.

“Of course, we’re very disappointed,” Iwobi was quoted by Fulhamfc.com. “We knew it was going to be a hard game and a tough place to come to, but if we don’t win then we shouldn’t lose, and maintain the draw.”

Iwobi admitted that conceding a last-minute winner felt like a dagger to the heart.

He explained that Fulham came out with greater energy in the second half and found more dynamism down the flanks, which allowed them to create several openings.

However, he stressed that failing to take chances against strong sides like Newcastle would always prove costly.

The midfielder noted that Fulham limited Newcastle’s opportunities for long spells but were punished for a few costly mistakes.

He added that staying consistent, giving 100 per cent, and maintaining focus until the final whistle would be key to getting the results the team needs.