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Mikel Plans To Fill Makelele’s Boots

Following Claude Makelele’s departure to Paris St Germain, there has been much talk regarding the gaping hole the 35 year old has left behind. The main theme seems to be around whether Chelsea really have a natural successor to fill the Makelele role in their ranks or whether the club’s decision to allow the Frenchman to leave will leave the Chelsea defence a lot more vulnerable than it has been for the past five years. However, there’s one young midfielder inside Stamford Bridge with no such concerns –  21 year old John Obi Mikel.

Following his move to Chelsea in somewhat controversial circumstances in 2006, Mikel, although previously seen as an attack-minded player has been utilised in that defensive midfield role, albeit alternating between playing both alongside and in the absence of Makelele, although last season the Nigerian had more appearances to his credit than his more experienced counterpart. Little wonder then that the young understudy is now coveting the position in the wake of the master’s departure.

In looking at Mikel’s ability to fill his predecessor’s boots, it has to be acknowledged that last season’s exposure to the role will have taught him some valuable lessons. Because, whilst his strength and physical presence on the pitch often belied his age, as if to counteract this we continued to witness the occasional rush of blood to the head to serve as a reminder of his youth.  Subsequently, having already received 2 red cards in his first season for Chelsea, Mikel then went on to leave us with ten men against both Everton and Manchester United last season. But this is hopefully where the lesson comes in, because, having seen himself left out of the side following the fourth red card of his Chelsea career, Mikel vowed to clean up his act. Finding himself with a little more time on his hands to reflect, Mikel stated “It is going to stop. It is not good for the team to be down to 10 men and I am trying my best to make sure I don’t get red cards.”

However, in defence of Mikel for last season at least it has to be noted he was by far from being the only player with questionable discipline. Mourinho’s exit during the early part of the season followed by the much less wanted Avram Grant clearly unsettled the majority and it appears Mikel was no exception, with him saying “I think I did very well under Mourinho and was playing regularly. Of course, when a new manager comes in everyone has to start afresh and roll up their sleeves. In Avram Grant’s time I was in and out of the side, and that was a bit frustrating, but it’s what happens in football.”

With the aforementioned ‘fresh start’ on the horizon again, Mikel, who is reported to be ‘loving’ life under the new Chelsea boss, certainly appears full of optimism and is confident he can fulfil the void left by the outgoing Makelele. Of this task Mikel says “I was in and out of the team last season, but when I was given a chance under Mourinho before, I actually did ok in that holding role. It’s something I’ve wanted – a run in the team – and I suppose Claude’s departure has opened up that door for me. This time, under the new boss, I will try to make it my position in the team each week.”

And if he can manage to avoid his customary two red cards a season, he might just do it!

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