The Chelsea fans in the Football Transfer Tavern would be disappointed to see him go…
John Obi Mikel has had a long and illustrious career at Chelsea – but in recent years, he has rarely been at the forefront of the Blues’ success.
With higher profile names often preferred to the Nigerian, he has had to settle for a bit-part role under managers including Jose Mourinho, and now Antonio Conte.
Since returning from the Olympics, Mikel has barely had a look in at Chelsea – and he has revealed that he has spoken to Antonio Conte about his long-term future at the club and his lack of game time.
According to the Metro, Mikel said: “[Antonio Conte] has been open and honest with me. I respect him for that. He has explained the situation and I totally understand.”
He continued: “These things happen where a club wants to move forward…I work twice as hard every day and it’s because I appreciate this club”.
Mikel is seemingly completely committed to the club despite his lack of game time, and in an era were club allegiances often mean very little – it is refreshing to see.
The Nigerian midfielder has become somewhat of a cult hero at Chelsea amongst the Blues faithful in the Tavern, and whilst he has often had little game time – he is one of a few Chelsea players to continually be kept on despite managers changing almost yearly.
Our landlord doesn’t think you can be a bad player and stay at a club like Chelsea for so long – and he thinks Mikel is hugely underrated.
However, with the Nigerian’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, and with no renewal in sight – it could be the end of Mikel’s illustrious Chelsea career.
Chelsea fans – thoughts?
Let us know below!
