Again, Mikel Hints At Chelsea Exit In January

Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has hinted he may leave Chelsea in the January transfer window.

The Chelsea midfielder has been at Stamford Bridge for 10 years and only captain John Terry has stayed more years at the club than the Nigerian.

But under Antonio Conte, he has yet to play this season.

“I will keep doing my best and ready for when called up upon,” he said. “We will see what happens in January.”

This is not the first time the former Lyn Oslo midfielder would give such hint at leaving the Blues.

He did give similar response in an interview in Uyo, after Nigeria defeated Algeria in a World Cup qualifier.

And Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr believes Mikel is being punished for representing his country at the Rio Olympics.

With Mikel as captain, Nigeria’s U-23 side won Bronze at the Games. He then said the medal is something he would “not trade for anything”.

Mikel at Chelsea

Since arriving at Stamford Bridge in 2006 for a fee of £16m, Mikel has won two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, the Champions League and the Europa League.

However, he has fallen out of favour this season under new manager Antonio Conte.

“I have never been a guy who made excuses in life, I never shy away from my responsibilities,” Mikel told BBC World Service Sport.

“I have to keep training hard and make sure I change the manager’s mind. I have been professional. I train and work everyday with the team and I hope one day I will get to play.

“I have written my name in the history of this football club and I have won loads of trophies. I have played close to 400 game and have no single regret.

“I still want to win more and help the team. Players move on in life but I am relaxed about January. I will speak to the club find the best solution.”