By Jacob Ajom

Super Eagles captain, John Obi Mikel is one player  who rarely finds the net during games. This notion is gradually waning following his thirst for goals while playing for the national team.

Last Saturday, during the match against Algeria in Uyo, the Chelsea midfielder found himself netting Nigeria’s second goal. But that goal was not without its share of drama.

A shot into the vital area of Algeria was poorly cleared by the visitors defence line and it fell  on  the path of the Nigerian captain. He picked the ball, looked left, looked right to see whether the assistant referee’s flag was down. The stands quaked as the fans urged him to shoot.  When he realised  he was not offside he fired  home Nigeria’s second goal.

Captain Mikel

Relaying how he  scored the goal at the post match briefing, Mike said, “it is not easy to score goals. When this chance came, I saw  the goalkeeper on the left side of the post then I fired to the right. I was excited when I saw that I was not offside.”

On his Chelsea career, the former Plateau United Football Club of Jos player said after spending 11 years at Stamford Bridge, it was time he looked at other available options. “By January we will see which direction will be good for me.”

Despite his not having playing time under the new coach at Chelsea, he said he has never allowed that to affect him. “I am a professional, I work hard, train hard and eat well. I am always ready to play,” he said.

He is happy about the level of confidence Super Eagles coach has in him. “That is why every time I come to play for Nigeria I always express myself. We are focused and will continue to work hard for the remaining matches.”