Iwobi facing Arsenal fine after partying claims

Alex Iwobi is facing a fine from Arsenal following newspaper reports he was out partying less than 48 hours before the holders crashed out of the FA Cup with a shock 4-2 defeat at Nottingham Forest.

The Sun obtained footage that appeared to show Iwobi at a house party in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The 21-year-old Nigeria international completed 90 minutes at the City Ground on Sunday, where goals from Per Mertesacker and Danny Welbeck were not enough to prevent a humiliating reverse against Championship opposition.

Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s EFL Cup semi-final with Chelsea, Gunners boss Arsene Wenger confirmed he would discuss the matter with Iwobi and take action if the allegations were accurate.

“if it’s true he will be fined,” said Wenger, who told reporters he was very disappointed with some individual performances at Forest.

“It is impossible to go out 48 hours before a game. It is unacceptable.

“I will have to see him to see whether that is right or not.

“If he was at a birthday party, how long has he stayed? That is very important. After that I will decide what happens.

“You must have played football, you want to prepare 100 per cent but sometimes it is not a guarantee that you will be at your best. But that is what is requested from a top professional.”

#17 pic.twitter.com/E1LGBRwLoc

— Alexander Iwobi (@alexiwobi) January 6, 2018

The Sun report alleged there was evidence of illegal drug use at the party Iwobi supposedly attended.

The newspaper added there was no suggestion the midfielder took drugs and Wenger was sure to defend his player against any implication to the contrary.

“You have to be cautious with the news coming out – when you read what has been reported it is like he has taken drugs but he’s not involved in that,” he added.

“If your neighbour takes drugs, what can you do about it? You are responsible for your behaviour.”