Chelsea
manager Jose Mourinho has again singled out his midfielder Mikel Obi
for praise. Barely two hours before the big match against Arsenal on
Monday at the Emirates, Mourinho told Chelsea FC website that even
though the Stamford Bridge had not done exceptionally well in their last
few games, they have been able to retain some respect and points
because of the work rate of the Nigerian national player.
Mourinho said, “We have a lot of
possession but are not killing opponents, they are killing us and we are
exposed. Mikel (Obi) gives us balance.”
This is the second time within two
months that the Portuguese has specially mentioned the Nigerian
preparing to lead the Super Eagles midfield at the Brazil 2014 World
Cup. In November Mourinho attributed Frank Lampard’s quality attacking
display largely to the presence of Mikel on the pitch.
“Frank is able to attack freely because
we have John (Mikel Obi). His good covering enables Frank to effectively
push forward,” the former Real Madrid coach said.
It was based on his belief in the
Nigerian that he was handed a starting place in the match at the
Emirates last night. Mikel, Lampard and Ramires made up the midfield for
the Stamford Bridge team with the Nigerian as the anchor. Mourinho then
added that the presence of the Eagles midfielder should help reduce the
effect of Mesut Ozil who has proved himself a very good buy for Arsenal
this season. The German international has helped greatly in the Gunners
chase for the elusive Premier League title this term.
Mourinho added, “We’ll try to control Mesut Ozil a little bit more. Let’s see.”
Mikel on his own has displayed a lot of
growing confidence since Nigeria won the African cup last February. On
Sunday he spoke on the country’s chances in Brazil next year and said he
was very hopeful the Eagles would fly high. The African champions are
yet to go beyond the second round in their four outings in the FIFA
biggest competition.
“I think being African champions has
given us a huge lift. I think the mentality of the team has changed in
the past couple of years. We believe now that we can go into every game
and win,” Mikel told Goal.com.
“I think the Africa Cup of Nations has given us a lot of belief to go into the World Cup – I know we can do well.”
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