Former captain of the senior national team of Nigeria John Obi Mikel says Joe Aribo should be made to play just behind the main striker in the Super Eagles set up ahead of the game against Ghana.
Looking ahead of the World Cup playoff which will take place in Ghana on the 25th of March and in Nigeria on the 29th respectively, Mikel said the major change to the lineup should be Aribo having a new role in the team.
Aribo has excelled this season playing farther up the pitch for Scottish side Rangers both in the Europa League and also the Scottish Premier League. For the Super Eagles he plays a lot deeper.
Mikel wants head coach of the Nigerian team Austine Eguavoen to hand Aribo the role currently occupied by Kelechi Iheanacho as it’s where he will be at his optimal best for Nigeria.
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“Aribo plays really well for the team but he can do more if played just behind the main striker. He has goals in him and can also create as well as help start the press high up the pitch due to his energy. The team will get more from him if he is played in that role “, Mikel told OwnGoalNigeria.com in an exclusive chat.
Asked on if he thinks Aribo as has done well wearing the number ten jersey that he vacated following his retirement from international football, Mikel described Aribo as a modern day number ten whose primary role goes beyond picking up assists or creating chances.
“Football is constantly changing and the number ten role has also changed a lot. Aribo plays like a modern day number ten. More of helping in the transition from defence to attack. The emphasis is less on assists or creating chances. These days they also score goals”, he concluded.
