Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has revealed that ex-Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel was his footballing growing up.

Ndidi started his career in Europe as a central defender and was occasionally deployed as a fullback before he was converted into a central midfielder three years ago.

Mikel is best remembered for his contributions to Nigeria winning the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and his time with Chelsea, where he won two Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League and three FA Cups.

Speaking to Leicester City's official website, Ndidi said : ''Growing up, I saw Jon Obi Mikel at Chelsea and I always liked him. I’ve met him and played with him.

''My first feeling, when I came to the national team, the first time I saw him it was my debut in the qualifiers and I actually came on for him. It was a great memory for me.

''Being in the training camp with him, he’s a lovely guy and he’s great with everyone. He’s a great captain for the team.''

Mikel called time on his international career following the conclusion of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, where he started the first and last group matches for the Super Eagles.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel