Nigeria and Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi says he is
searching for a balance between his offensive and defensive play.
In Chelsea's blue strip, Mikel strikes the pose of a most
unimaginable holding player, hitting repetitive sideways and backwards passes.
But in Nigeria colours, he has sparkled in a free,
offensive role in Stephen Keshi's expansive 4-3-3, showing a repertoire of
incisive passing, outrageous skill and even a goal that puts his Chelsea
photocopy to shame.
Mikel told KickOffNigeria.com that he would now need to
strike a balance between the two, "I always try to do what my coaches tell
me. At Chelsea, I have to play for the team and be more defensive.
"But in Nigeria, the coach allows me to express
myself and I enjoy myself.
"Now, I have to find a balance between the two
because it is important for my future."
Mikel was particularly impressive against Uruguay and
Spain, dominating a midfield that included Spanish greats Xavi and Iniesta and
popping up to score a quite magnificent goal of breathtaking skill against
Uruguay.
Now he says he wants more. "I was very happy to
score the goal," Mikel said with some modesty.
"When Ideye passed the ball to me, I knew I just
needed to beat the defender, and as soon as I did that, I just needed to be calm
and put the ball where I wanted it.
"It felt great to score a goal after so long. Now
maybe I can score more," he added.
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