Since the arrival of Antonio Conte, Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel hasn’t really got the chance to prove himself in the reassembled Blues team, and is now hinting at a January departure from the club.
Mikel, who’s also the captain of Nigeria’s national side, joined Chelsea in a £16m deal back in 2006 and is the second longest-serving player at the club right after John Terry.
During his past ten years with the West London club, the 29-year-old has won two Premier League titles, four FA Cups and the Champions League and the Europa League glory. However, he’s yet to make an appearance this season and could be forced to leave in January in order to get playing time for himself.
I will keep doing my best and ready for when called upon. We will see what happens in January. I have never been a guy who makes excuses in life, I never shy away from my responsibilities.
I have to keep training hard and make sure I change the manager’s mind. I have been professional, I train and work every day 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 games 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 to find the best solution.
– John Obi Mikel, BBC
Mikel says he’s still hopeful of his chances under the Italian, but if the club can’t match his demands, it’s likely that he’ll leave.
