Obi Mikel Reacts To Possibility Of Joining Everton In January

Former Chelsea midfielder Obi Mikel has reacted to sensational rumors which emanated from the press in his homeland that he's set to move to Premier League side Everton next month.

The Super Eagles captain has made it crystal clear that his future lies with Chinese club Tianjin Teda, whom he helped to escape relegation last season, and publicly labelled the reports linking him with a return to England false.

''I don’t know from where such a rumour could come, but this story is untrue,'' Mikel told Tianjin TV.

''I want to stay in the CSL and play for (Tianjin) Teda. I’m sure there will be lots of speculation about me as the transfer window nears but it is a false rumour.

''The CSL lags behind the Premier League, but their level is still quite high. I believe more matches will help me get in shape for the 2018 World Cup.

''I just hope to stay injury-free next year and have an amazing season with Teda.''

Obi Mikel, 30, is contracted to Tianjin Teda until the end of the 2019 season.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel