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.”
Tuesday, 24 December 2013
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