Yakubu, A World Class Striker -Ikpeba

Former Super Eagles of Nigeria star, Victor Ikpeba says Yakubu Aiyegbeni has shamed his critics with the brace he scored in Blackburn’s victory over Arsenal in today’s Premier League tie.

Two second half own goals from Alex Song and Laurent Koscielny and a goal in each half from debutant Yakubu Aiyegbeni gave Blackburn Rovers a win over Arsenal.

The final score was 4-3, giving Blackburn their first win of the season.

Arsenal’s goals were scored by Gervinho, Mikel Arteta and Marouane Chamack.

Ikpeba told MTNFootball.com that after the South 2010 FIFA World Cup, Aiyegbeni has lost face among Nigerians.

“He has been criticised unduly for what happened at the World Cup, but he remains one of the best strikers in the EPL,” said Ikpeba.

“His first goal against Arsenal today was full of class, he knew what he wanted to do, and he proved that once you are a class striker, you remain a class striker.

“He’s a striker who delivers and it’s a perfect response to his critics.”

Meanwhile, Yakubu said his self belief has been boosted after he struck twice in his Blackburn Rovers debut in the English Premier League against Arsenal.

“Scoring goals gives you more confidence. I believe I can score goals and I have done it again,” said ‘The Yak’ after the match.

The big striker first warmed his way into the heart of the home fans at Ewood Park after 26 minutes when he helped on a through pass and on 59 minutes he doubled his personal tally with a simple tap-in from the goal line.

It was Blackburn’s first win of the season after losing their first three games and only managing a draw before the home win over The Gunners.