Mikel Trains Without Discomfort

Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has dismissed speculations in the local media suggesting that he won't be fit for the African Cup of Nations which begins on January 19.

The midfielder has not been listed for Chelsea's last three matches in the Premier League after a knee injury suffered against Norwich. But he trained with the Nigeria squad on Sunday in Portugal without any discomfort.

''I'm okay. I had a knock two weeks ago and was told to rest for some time, but now I am fit and I actually started training two days ago with the Chelsea first team.

"So there should be no fears about any injury. I'm ready for the Nations Cup,'' Mikel stated.

It would be Mikel's fourth Nations Cup appearance if he is chosen by Stephen Keshi in Nigeria's final roster expected to be announced on Tuesday.