8th January, 2014
Former Super Eagles’ defence trojan, Taribo West has declared that it will be tough for Eagles’ midfielder John Mikel Obi to win the African Footballer of the Year in Lagos on Thursday.
The Chelsea FC of England midfielder has been nominated with two Ivorians, Manchester City of England midfielder Yaya Toure and Galatasaray of Turkey forward, Didier Drogba for the award, but Taribo noted that it won’t be an easy ride for the Nigerian to clinch the coveted award.
The former Inter Milan of Italy defender admits that in as much as he would have loved to see Mikel winning the award, he still has his fears.
“I would like Mikel to win the award but those who voted for the winner might have given it to one of the Ivorians. I wish Mikel wins it because it has been a long time a Nigerian won the award,” the ex-international said.
—Adebobola Alawode