Chelsea Boss Refuses To Declare Hard Worker Mikel Surplus To Requirements After Capture Of Kante

Chelsea new manager Antonio Conte has hinted that Obi Mikel is in his plans for the new season, amid speculations linking the Nigeria international with possible moves to Inter Milan and Be�ikta�.

Fuel was added to those exit rumours when the Blues announced the capture of N’Golo Kante from Leicester City on Saturday, but the Italian coach has refused to declare Mikel surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge.

“He’s a good player. He has good technique, fantastic stamina and I like this type of player, ” said Conte to chelseafc.com.

“If you want to win a team needs this type of player – Kante, Matic and Mikel – that work hard for the team.”

Mikel, who has been at Chelsea since 2006 after switching from Lyn Oslo in Norway, is now contracted to the London club until June 30, 2017.

He started Conte’s first game in charge; a pre-season fixture against Rapid Vienna on Saturday.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : chelseafc.com