Mikel Obi; Undisputable Legend!

Posted by African Examiner Articles/Opinion, Featured, Featured Contributors/Columnists, Latest Headlines Monday, August 1st, 2016

By Ridwan Adeola Yusuf

BALTIMORE, MD (AFRICAN EXAMINER) – He is only 29, but it is fair to say that John Mikel Obi is a Nigerian legend. He is a talented footballer, who marshals his role in the middle of the park expertly, whether for club or country. The most populous black nation on earth, Nigeria, has produced other legendary footballers, including but not limited to the like of mathematical Segun Odegbami to the Late gangling Rashidi Yekinni, to skillful and fanciful Austin Jay Jay Okacha, et.al.

Regardless of whatever happens at the Olympics; whether the Dream Team VI he leads win gold or not, Mikel has already cemented his place among ‘our’ Football icons. At Chelsea for instance, he is currently the longest serving Club’s player after Captain John Terry. This current season is his 10th year at the Bridge.

Specifically, credit must be given to him as no Chelsea Manager – Mourinho, Benitez, Scolari, Hiddink, Ancelotti, Conte had ever deemed him surplus to requirement! He has won virtually everything ‘winnable’ at the club level, save for the FIFA Club World Cup and the UEFA Super Cup. With the Super Eagles, he is the most experienced.

Mikel helped Nigeria won the Africa Cup of Nations after 14 years wait, earning him a place among the top three best players on the continent that year. He is the leader of the new generation of Eagles. In the next few years, he should still be leading the team.

It is very key to reason and submit that Nigerians never know the value of something until it is no more. Similarly, we will never appreciate Mikel until he quits active football!

RIDWAN ADEOLA YUSUF Writes from Lagos; E-mail: ridwanadeola@gmail.com