Every match. Every coach. Every game needing the quality and skill of a genuine star, Mikel must play.

For a player who sadly remains unappreciated and largely underrated by many, it is surprising how he comes to play virtually every game at one of the best clubs in the world - the current Europeans Champions - Chelsea FC!

Brought to Chelsea FC ahead of Manchested United amidst controversial circumstances after a scintillating outing at the World Youth Champiinship in 2005, ranking only second to Lionel Messi as the best player of the tournament, Mikel was soon converted to a defensive midfielder by the former chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho - a role he has since grown into and matured in over the years.

Criticised frequently for his lack of attacking courage as well as his occasional proclivity to give the ball away, and making rather unnecessary passes at times, Mikel Obi remains the best for his position at Club, and arguably one of the best in the holding midfield role Europe-wide in recent years.

Mikel's strength, stability, ability to command control of the ball and an eye for passes make him an invaluable asset for any club. His excellent performance in Champions League triumph of Chelsea is a noteworthy attestation to his strength and confidence at the top level, as his 720 degrees dribble in a fantastic game at White Hart Lane last saturday reminds one of the many capabilities of the two-time African Young Player of The Year at Chelsea.

His strings of consistent performances in recent seasons has seen him put off challenges from the likes of Ramires, Frank Lampard, Romeu and previously Meireless, making him highest in the pecking order of defensive midfielders at Chelsea - a role which he is likely to still control in the years to come giving his newly extended contract at the Club

It is however sad that many have continued to vilify the 25 year old's style of play, often highlighting his weaknesses, in a rather destructive manner, while continously overlooking his qualities.

Suffice is to say that whoever that would continue to dispute the quality, worth and professionalism of Mikel Obi will do well to ask Roberto di Matteo, and indeed all previous managers of Chelsea, why and how Mikel has proved seemingly irreplaceable at Stamford Bridge!

Very interesting!

centje: Very interesting!

yes he is

Mikel is the sh///it!

Mikel is the best holding midfielder in Uk..... C the way he killed and disposed Carrick of Manchester United today in the Midfield when brought in!

CARRICK WAS GREAT IN 1ST HALF 2ND HALF? MIKEL CLOSE DOOR

nice tribute.
Just had to check dis out cos am a hardened fan of Mikel. I loved dat guy even b4 he joined chelsea and he's d reason am a chelsea supporter today. Big ups to Him. He's a master of his art.