Jose Mourinho says he has never doubted John Mikel Obi’s importance to Chelsea.
The no-nonsense midfielder has had his share of critics since being signed in 2006 during Mourinho’s first spell as Blues boss.
But he has had a key role in recent seasons and marked his 300th appearance for the club by scoring rare goal in Sunday’s FA Cup third-round victory at Derby.
And Mourinho declared: “I recognise his ability to play as an anchorman and play in that position in a very comfortable way.
“He always reads the game very well and plays in an intelligent and safe way.”
Mikel’s second-half header from Willian’s free-kick was only his fourth Chelsea goal, with three of them coming in the FA Cup.
It gave them an all-important breakthrough at Pride Park, where they had been enduring a frustrating afternoon in front of goal.
Mourinho admitted: “It was important for us because we were playing and creating but the goal wasn’t coming. For us it was like the winning goal.”
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This post was last modified on 07/01/2014
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His nemeses is retired so though he's not a natural goal scorer, he should have confident in making case for goals.
With mikels 2 goals this season,is not yet over guys. I think is realy out 4 a job and it ganna be a job wel-done.just expect more goals to come frm mikel