As the African Cup of Nations qualifier between Egypt and Nigeria hold in Kaduna today, Chelsea FC midfielder John Obi Mikel has been named the new captain of the Super Eagles.
The change, announced at the press hall of the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna, had the team’s coach, Samson Siasia and former skipper Ahmed Musa in attendance, will see Mikel lead the Nigerian side out for the next two qualifiers in Kaduna and Alexandria, Egypt.
With 72 caps to his name, Mikel was the man at the top of the list and the captaincy has been handed over in amicable circumstances.
The boss reportedly met with both players last night to explain the situation and, speaking to journalists, Musa fully accept the reasoning behind the decision.
Siasia, who forged a great career with the national side and was reappointed head coach in February, almost five years after he was sacked from the same job, had stated, upon his re-appointment, that he would give the skipper’s band to the longest-serving squad member.
In return, Chelsea fans have taken to Twitter to congratulate the 28-year-old for this overdue recognition.
Mikel, in his acceptance speech, thanked Musa for having the courage to relinquish the captaincy to him.
He equally commended the coach for the confidence reposed on him, assuring that he will not let them down.
“I know what the coach demands from me as a player and leader of the team, I will not let you down.
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