Mikel will play for Nigeria even if he goes to China – Rohr

Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr has said he hopes Mikel Obi moves to another European club rather than China, but should the Chelsea midfielder opt for China, the move will not knock him off the national team.

Rohr made it very clear he prefers Mikel stays in Europe, but will respect his decision to take the big cash in China but that move will not shut him out of the Super Eagles.

Rohr said, “I prefer Mikel stays in Europe and play in an European team. When I was in London two weeks ago, we spoke about that. But Mikel is an experienced and intelligent player and he knows what to do.

“If he decides to choose the money of China, then we must respect that. If he goes to China and is playing well, he will come (to the Super Eagles).”

The Nigerian captain has been cut off the Chelsea line up since he returned from the Rio Olympics at the start of the season. Reports have suggested that the likes of Olympique Marseille and Valencia are interested in signing him with several Chinese clubs also being mention.

But despite being from at Stamford Bridge has steadily led the Eagles in all their games under Rohr.