Nigeria vs Algeria: Rohr speaks on ‘problem’ with not playing Mikel Obi

Head coach of the Super Eagles, Gernot Rohr, has insisted that there is no problem with not picking John Obi Mikel in his team.

According to Rohr, Mikel Obi is important to the national team, whether or not he is on the pitch.

The midfielder has not featured since he suffered a knee injury against Madagascar in the final Group B game.

He is unlikely to return to the starting line-up vs Algeria, as Alex Iwobi is now ahead of him in the pecking order.

“The coaching and playing career are similar, I tell them to enjoy the time they are players because it goes so quickly and what you will do after you stop football.

“The best moment is when you are a player and they have to enjoy this moment. Play as long as possible, I tell them we have Obi Mikel here with us.

“Even if he is not starting the game, he is doing a good job as a captain, he’s a guide for the young players.

“Some of you believed, in Nigeria especially, that Obi Mikel coming back and not starting the games, we will have a problem.

“There is no problem and we have two captains, Mikel and Ahmed Musa, who is also a very important African player,” Rohr told reporters at Saturday’s pre-match press conference.

Download Edujandon.com News App QR-Code

Edujandon.com - 24/7 News Upda

Developer: Edujandon Enterprises

Price: Free