The Toffees were leading by 2-1 in the 1995 semi-final FA Cup clash against Tottenham and Spurs seemed to be coming back into the game after Jurgen Klinsmann pulled one goal back. Everton striker Paul Rideout suffered a knee problem and he was being assessed by the medical team before deciding if he could get back on the pitch.
Daniel Amokachi forces substitution into FA Cup semi finals against Tottenham and scores two goals. Everton won by 4-1. Photo by Steve Morton and Laurence Griffiths Source: Getty Images
Toffees boss Royle also went to the scene to check on his forward before Amokachi took the big chance. The Nigerian striker informed one of the coaching staff that he was instructed to come in by manager Royle. The gaffer was not happy about it but the Amokachi had already entered the pitch with 20 minutes left to play in the match. And he scored two goals to lead the Toffees into the finals to face the FA cup favourites Manchester United.
I told Jimmy Gabriel, who was in charge of subs, that the gaffer had said I was to go on. Jimmy gave the paper to the fourth official and I ran on the pitch. I turned just as the gaffer was running towards the sideline shouting “what the hell are you doing?” Poor Jimmy was left to explain.” After the game Royle told Amokachi: “Well done Daniel. But you ever try that s*** again and you’ll be finished.” Liverpool star Van Dijk
In a post-match interview Royle added: “I wanted them to hold on for a few seconds but Daniel wandered on to the pitch and that was it. “He was desperate to play but he should not have been on.”
Alex Iwobi was born in Lagos before his parents moved to England where he started his football career at Arsenal youth team and was monitored by former coach Arsene Wenger. At the age of 14, Alex Iwobi was almost released by the Gunners due to unimpressive performances from the Nigerian, but the London based team gave him another chance and he made use of it.
