Mikel Named In Nigeria’s Afcon Squad

Mikel Obi has been recalled to the Nigerian squad ahead of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, taking place in Egypt next month.

Mikel has not played for the Nigerian side since last year’s World Cup in Russia however he has been included in the squad following discussions with coach Gernot Rohr.

Keliechi Iheanacho will also be returning to the squad from Leicester City.

The former Chelsea midfielder Mikel is currently without a club after his short-term contract at Championship club Middlesbrough ended earlier this month.

He impressed on his return to English football scoring once in 19 appearances as Boro missed out on the Championship play-offs.

The squad will take part in a training camp in Asaba from 2-9 June, before heading to the Egyptian city of Ismaila for a pre-tournament friendly against Senegal on 16 June.

The three-time champions will play in Group B at the Nations Cup, alongside Guinea, Madagascar and Burundi.

Nigeria's opening match will be against Burundi on 22 June at the Alexandria Stadium, Alexandria.