Mikel tasks Tianjin Teda ahead Guangzhou R&F clash

 

Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel is to bounce back to action come July 9. Return of the Eagles skipper will be a major boost for Nigeria as the Gernot Rohr tutored Eagles attempt to regain their momentum in the Nations cup qualifiers following the 2-1 loss to South Africa at the Nest of Champions in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state. At the club level, Tianjin Teda coaches and players are elated as recovery report on the Nigerian international indicates that he could be in shape for the club’s home tie against Shandong Luneng on July 9.

Meanwhile, the former Chelsea midfielder who doubles as captain of Tianjin Teda has reportedly charged his teammates to ensure they sing victory song Saturday as they host table toppers Guangzhou R&F at the Tianjin Tuanbo Soccer Stadium.

Though currently occupying the 12th position on the 16-team log, the recuperrating Tianjin Teda captain believes the team can gradually push their way to the top four by picking vital points away and avoiding losing points at home.

“”At every point home or away we must put in our very best,” he was quoted as telling his teammates who are eager to have him back in action.  The Nigerian international picked up an injury against Chongqing Lifan, forcing him to miss international duties especially

Super Eagles Nations Cup qualifiers against South Africa which saw the Eagles lose 2-1 at home to the Rainbow City boys for the first time in a competitive match.

At the club level the 30-year-old has missed ten games for the Tianjin Tigers since suffering a strain.

In other Chinese Super league fixtures this weekend, Nigerian international Obafemi martins who has been consistent for his side

Shanghai Shenhua will be hoping to register his name on the score sheet as they take on Yanbian Funde away.

On paper some Shanghai Shenhua     fans have said it should be tea party for their side who are 10th on the log against Yanbian Funde who are rooted in the relegation zone with just seven points in 13 matches. In the same vein, Super Eagles forward odion Ighalo and his Changchun Yatai teammates will attempt to rattle Chongqing Dangdai Lifan away. This weekend’s ties will mark the 14th game since the new season began in the Chinese Super League that is recording improved profile following the import of several top players from the English premier league and other leagues across the globe.

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