Mikel gives us balance – Mourinho

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has again singled out his midfielder Mikel Obi for praise. Barely two hours before the big match against Arsenal on Monday at the Emirates, Mourinho told Chelsea FC website that even though the Stamford Bridge had not done exceptionally well in their last few games, they have been able to retain some respect and points because of the work rate of the Nigerian national player.

Mourinho said, “We have a lot of possession but are not killing opponents, they are killing us and we are exposed. Mikel (Obi) gives us balance.”

This is the second time within two months that the Portuguese has specially mentioned the Nigerian preparing to lead the Super Eagles midfield at the Brazil 2014 World Cup. In November Mourinho attributed Frank Lampard’s quality attacking display largely to the presence of Mikel on the pitch.

“Frank is able to attack freely because we have John (Mikel Obi). His good covering enables Frank to effectively push forward,” the former Real Madrid coach said.

It was based on his belief in the Nigerian that he was handed a starting place in the match at the Emirates last night. Mikel, Lampard and Ramires made up the midfield for the Stamford Bridge team with the Nigerian as the anchor. Mourinho then added that the presence of the Eagles midfielder should help reduce the effect of Mesut Ozil who has proved himself a very good buy for Arsenal this season. The German international has helped greatly in the Gunners chase for the elusive Premier League title this term.

Mourinho added, “We’ll try to control Mesut Ozil a little bit more. Let’s see.”

Mikel on his own has displayed a lot of growing confidence since Nigeria won the African cup last February. On Sunday he spoke on the country’s chances in Brazil next year and said he was very hopeful the Eagles would fly high. The African champions are yet to go beyond the second round in their four outings in the FIFA biggest competition.

“I think being African champions has given us a huge lift. I think the mentality of the team has changed in the past couple of years. We believe now that we can go into every game and win,” Mikel told Goal.com.

“I think the Africa Cup of Nations has given us a lot of belief to go into the World Cup – I know we can do well.”