Rumors circulating that Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel assaulted a female Nigeria journalist after a Super Eagles training session are incorrect, according to the reputable media officer of the national team, Ben Alaiya.

And the Editor of Sports Day newspaper has reiterated that the incident involving the KISS FM staff and Mikel was blown out of proportion by mischief makers.

“It is not true that he slapped the lady. I spoke to the lady, and she said nothing like that took place. He ( Mikel) was trying to escape from the crowd after training and made contact with her.

“I have spoken to her and she said it is not true,” said Ben Alaiya to allnigeriasoccer.com.

John Obi Mikel has been named in the starting lineup for the clash against Sudan on Wednesday evening.