OPINION: Keshi Needs To Find A Defined Role For Mikel In Eagles Squad

The Chelsea midfielder was extremely creative and had a vision that bellied his tender years. Unfortunately, his progression didn't take same route as he transited into a holding midfielder.

Mikel doesn't have a defined role in the Super Eagles. At the Confederations Cup, he was in his elements as he played in the offensive midfield position and his goal against Uruguay justified him playing there.

Keshi's formation against the Mexicans didn't do him any favors, but the midfielder also didn't help the team with his dilly dallying on the ball and failing to release the runners in the team.


On numerous occasions, he slowed the transition from the defence to attack and held to the ball unnecessarily, and when he lost the ball, he didn't put in enough to regain possession thereby overworking Ogenyi Onazi who played just behind him. He needs to just keep it plain and simple.

Keshi needs to find a defined role for Mikel. He might just be the fulcrum the team needs between the defence and attack and I wont bat an eye lid if the creative responsibilities are given him, He is that good.