Mikel Risks Controversy Over Nigeria Appearance

John Obi Mikel will play for Nigeria on Sunday © Photo: MTNfootball.com

March 28, 2009

Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel will play for Nigeria on Sunday despite suffering a throat infection.

"I love my country and I always want to play for my country," the 21 year old told KickOffNigeria.

"That is why I had to come even though I was sick and needed to rest to recover fully.

"Every player's dream is to play for his country and I am no different but sometimes, because of circumstances, you can’t always do what you want and people should understand that.

"I keep saying it all the time but it seems like nobody wants to listen to my side. People just believe what they want and it makes me sad.

"Nigeria is my country and I want to play all the time.

"It is an honour for me to wear the national team colours, but sometimes things happen and people should understand that it is not deliberate."

Click here for more about this match.