Super Eagles and Chelsea FC midfielder, Mikel Obi, has disclosed that he tends to play better football for the Nigerian national soccer team compared to his performances at the English club because the Eagles technical crew allows him to play a free role and encouraged him to venture deeply into the opponent’s area.
Mikel who was marvelled by his ability to score a vital goal against Uruguay in one of the group games of the FIFA Confederations Cup, said he is at the moment searching for a balance between his offensive and defensive play.
Mikel said that he would now need to strike a balance between his defensive restricted role at Chelsea and the free attacking role in the Eagles. “I always try to do what my coaches tell me. At Chelsea, I have to play for the team and be more defensive.
“But in Nigeria, the coach allows me to express myself and I enjoy myself.
“Now, I have to find a balance between the two because it is important for my future.”
Mikel was particularly impressive against Uruguay and Spain, dominating a midfield that included Spanish greats Xavi and Iniesta and popping up to score a quite magnificent goal of breathtaking skill against Uruguay.
Now he says he wants more. “I was very happy to score the goal,” Mikel said with some modesty.
“When Ideye passed the ball to me, I knew I just needed to beat the defender, and as soon as I did that, I just needed to be calm and put the ball where I wanted it.
“It felt great to score a goal after so long. Now maybe I can score more,” he added.
