When Super Eagles coach, Samson Siasia got booted out from his job, some Nigerians said he was high-handed, discipline wise and that contributed to his fall-out with some of the so-called big players in the national team.

His successor and friend, Stephen Keshi alluded to it and said even though he would not tolerate indiscipline from the players, he would still treat them like a father would do to his children, beat them with one hand and draw them close with the other.

After only two friendly matches in charge as the Eagles handler, Keshi is faced with an issue that will put to test his ability to keep to his words, put his foot down and instil discipline, no matter the calibre of player involved.

Chelsea Football Club of England midfielder, John Obi Mikel who was one of the players that fell under Siasia’s axe for turning up late in camp in the ill-fated Nations Cup qualifier against Guinea in Abuja last month is again at the centre of an imminent clash with Keshi.

The Chelsea player opted out of the friendly games against Botswana in Benin City last Saturday and Zambia in Kaduna on Tuesday, citing injury for his action but in his reaction, Keshi said he hopes that was the true position of the player.

He told reporters after the 2-0 win over the Zambian side that he would be thoroughly disappointed if Mikel goes on to player in the clash against Liverpool at Stamford Bridge tomorrow but fell short of proclaiiming what sanction awaits him.