Mikel Shuns The Super Eagles For Chelsea

It is no longer news that Chelsea of England and Nigeria's midfielder, John Obi Mikel was not involved in the encounter between the Super Eagles and South Africa's Bafana Bafana.

Following reports that Mikel pulled out of the Nelson Mandela challenge as a result of stomach upset, it has been gathered that the AFCON 2013 winner prefers to cement his place in the premiership giants team to coming for the match slated for the Moses Mabhida stadium in Durban, South Africa.

In the light of interests from top European clubs such as Monaco, Galatasaray and Trabzonspor, Mikel has been rumoured to be on the brink of leaving the London club.

Sensing fears that the arrival of Anders Schurlle and Marco Van Ginkel may hinder his chances of commanding a first team jersey, Mikel decided to fight his way through and concentrate on club engagements rather than answering national call.

Again, the caliber of players Michael Essien, Franks Lampard, Ramires, Kevin de Bruyne and the earlier mentioned duo- in Chelsea's midfield is enough to make Mikel work his socks off.

Another factor is Mikel's national team commitments in the off season and his joining up with teammates after observing extra days rest as result of the congested month of June when Nigeria played matches in FIFA World cup qualifiers and the Confederations Cup held in Brazil.

It could be recalled that Chelsea's Jose Mourinho converted the Nigerian to a defensive midfielder possibly with the aim of replacing Claude Makelele. Mikel did well in the position but recent indications point to the fact that the player is on the verge of departing Roman Abrahamovich's clubside.

 With the 2013/2014 English premiership league season set to commence this weekend, Mikel would aim to be listed in the team expected to confront newly promoted and renamed Hull City Tigers,hence the need to shun the Super Eagles international friendly this evening.