Nigeria's under-23 coach Samson Siasia says he understands why Arsenal have blocked Alex Iwobi from playing for his country at the Rio Olympics.

With the football due to start on 3 August it would mean the 20 year old missing the start of the Premier League season.

"I've no problem with a boy I love like a son for missing out," Siasia told BBC Sport from the USA.

"I think some people in the media just love to sensationalise and fabricate stuff

"He's a smart, passionate, enthusiastic and dedicated boy but the fact that it's not a Fifa tournament Arsenal are within their rights to stop him.

"Alex has a chance to establish himself in the Arsenal first team and if he could manage that this season then it will outweigh the potential gold medal.

"His father [Chuka Iwobi] has made strong efforts, the boy has done his bit as well to be with us but Arsenal pays his wages and makes the calls.

"His progress and success at club level will only benefit Nigeria ahead of the World Cup qualifiers, I want people to lay off Alex and rally support for the team in Rio."