Arsene Wenger explains why he 'harshly' substituted Alex Iwobi after fans blast him

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has explained why he substituted Nigerian youngster Alex Iwobi just 10 minutes into the second half in Saturday's narrow 1-0 win over Norwich city. Alex Iwobi didn't look impressed as he was hauled off just ten minutes into the second half.Many Arsenal fans turned on Arsene Wenger, suggesting it was an unfair treatment meted out to the Nigerian attacker, especially as he has been in terrific form for the Gunners recently.

Iwobi made way for match-winner Danny Welbeck and Wenger has offered some insight into what warranted the substitution.

“I saw the opportunity there, because Alex Iwobi comes more towards the ball but, with a runner in behind on our left side, there was some room to exploit, and Danny did that very well,” Wenger told the club’s official website. “On top of that he scored a goal when he came on.”

Iwobi, 19, has played 12 Premier League games this season and has two goals and two assists to his credit.