Mikel has a big role to play for Nigeria at the World Cup - Etim Esin
Former Nigerian international Etim Esin believes John Obi Mikel has a big role to play in the Super Eagles' quest to do well at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
Esin said Nigeria stands to gain from the influential experiences of the Chelsea midfielder,as he would help in galvanizing other players in the tournament.
Mikel had one of his stand-out years in the Super Eagles set up,playing a sterling role in helping Nigeria win the 2013 African Nations Cup in South Africa.
“Mikel has played against some of the players we are going to play against at the World Cup and his experience will be crucial in our matches,” the former Nigeria attacking midfielder told our correspondent on the telephone during the week.
“He has been our best player and his standout performances helped us win the Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa and earned a place at the World Cup.
“He’ll help motivate the younger players at the World Cup, especially against Argentina, who have world-class players such as (Lionel) Messi and (Sergio) Aguero.
“Mikel has played against Barcelona with Messi, (Andres) Iniesta and Xavi in their team.
Esin however called on Keshi to select the best players for World Cup,as it is very different from the Nations Cup.
"We are African champions and we’ll be under pressure to give the continent a good outing at the competition.
“But we must strengthen the team with some experienced players because playing in the World Cup is different from playing at the Africa Cup of Nations.
“Stephen Keshi should only name players who can deliver in our squad for the World Cup.
“He is the coach and we should allow him have a free hand when selecting his players for the tournament. We can only suggest and not put him under pressure to pick a particular player.”
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