Mikel Obi is super star on midfield—–Assombalonga

DR Congo international Britt Assombalonga is the latest star in Middlesbrough to shower praise on Nigeria captain Mikel Obi for his influence and abilities in the middle of the park, National Daily learnt.

The 31-year-old Mikel has established his presence in Tony Pulis’ team with imperious performances in the midfield since his arrival as a free agent in January.

His displays earned him a special song from the fans and Assombalonga, Boro’s leading top scorer with 10 goals this season, has lauded the Super Eagles midfielder for his exemplary role.

Mikel has made 11 appearances for the Riverside Stadium outfit so far including an appearance in the FA Cup though with a record of three wins, five losses and three draws.

However, the DR Congo star Assombalonga is raving about the playing style of the former Chelsea midfielder.

“He is incredible. He drags players towards him and that creates time and space somewhere else and then he gets the ball, keeps the ball and threads it into those empty space for someone to pick up and use,” he continued.

“You can give him the ball absolutely anywhere on the pitch and he will manoeuvre and find a space or an angle and find a way to give it to someone else in a better position. He’s awesome.”

Mikel joined the Championship side as a previous winner of the Uefa Champions League, the English Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup before leaving for Chinese Super League side Tianjin Teda in 2017.