'Fantastic player' - Mikel praises Chelsea winger Madueke for finishing the season strongly

Chelsea icon Obi Mikel has praised England U21 international of Nigerian descent Noni Madueke for finishing the season strongly. 

Madueke was a key player in the run-in, starting nine consecutive matches in the Premier League for the first time since his move to Stamford Bridge from Dutch club PSV Eindhoven.

He registered five goal involvements (2 goals, 3 assists), helping Chelsea secure a spot in next season's Conference League as manager Mauricio Pochettino guided the Blues to a sixth-place finish in the Premier League. 

The Anglo-Nigerian struggled to tie down a regular shirt in the starting lineup in the first half of the campaign, logging 230 minutes across nine matches in the top-flight from August 13 to December 30.

Mikel admitted that Cole Palmer stole most of the headlines but was left impressed by the performance of Madueke in the business end to the season.

Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, Mikel said: "Fantastic player. I thought he was the spark come towards the end of the season. I know yes Cole Palmer was the guy but Madueke finished the season really well. 

"He chipped in few goals, created some chances, was the spark, everything went through him. He was trying to do something on the pitch."

Chelsea will face Wrexham, Celtic, Club America, Manchester City and Real Madrid in friendly games as part of their preparations for the 2024-2025 season. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit: chelseafc.com

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com