Was watching this on BBC3 - 3-0 to Spain Scoreline doesn't reflect the match. Nigeria deserved better - Finishing was Mikelesque; Dire at best Torres scored an amazing goal as second half sub with a flying header Mikel plays awesome - seriously didn't think he could pull forward passes, runs like he did. Maybe MIkel and Torres can be lot better for us next season.
Mikel was simply amazing. Shame he's restricted with us and not aloud to get forward like he does with nigeria.
I think Mikel is going to be sold, which is a shame if he can be let off the leash and have a Yaya Toure type role, then he could be an asset to the club
in the other thread I already bid farewell to him.. never rated the lad.. but after seeing him play against Spain with virtually U-23 players, I stand corrected. But not sure whether he will get that chance. IN the holding role - he looks useless
We ruined him. Simple as. However, if we free up his role in a new formation he could do wonders. He's a talented lad. Fernando looking lethal as well. But can we trust him for a season again? I want to in my heart but my head says that's suicide.
For years some of us have been saying Mikel has been miscast and nobbled with Chelsea.He is really good creative midfielder who is just way too restricted by a succession of managers at Chelsea. Lets hope Jose keeps him and uses him properly, but don't hold your breath.
Sorry not buying this Mikel as an attacking midfielder lark. He may have a good game now and then for Nigeria but having watched him for years, I've seen nothing in his passing, dribbling, shooting abilities that would suggest he can do this for us (or another top european side). If we want to compete for titles we need technically superior players in attacking positions. Mikel is a good enforcer, calm on the ball and confident but Fabregas, Mata, Iniesta, Toure even...he is not. This is the same player people bemoan cos he misplaces simple passes... For the record, I like the player but feel there is a reason pretty much every Chelsea manager has kept him in the holding role.
