Lars Lagerback has named John Mikel Obi as Nigeria’s captain, saying he needs a ‘fresh young face’ to guide the troops for the long term.

The Chelsea starlet replaces Nwankwo Kanu, whose place in the squad must now come into question.

“He is a young player, a good player with a great future, and I think already he shows great promise,” Lagerback said in Lagos on Wednesday. “As we go into the future, it is important to get a fresh, young face to be the team leader.”

Lagerback dismissed doubts about Mikel's ability to handle the responsibility, saying leadership cannot be learned.

“I speak to him and he knows it is a big responsibility. I am sure he will have no problems with the rest of the team.”

On former skipper Kanu, Lagerback refused to be drawn. “I have made my decision. It is important that every member of the team respect and work with the new captain. It is more important to be selected to play for your country than to be captain.”

DISCLAIMER: THIS STORY IS NOT TRUE. IT IS AN APRIL FOOL'S DAY JOKE. THANKS FOR HAVING FUN WITH US.

Biggest Mistake ever made after Amodu's Position as Coach.

mama-gee:

Biggest Mistake ever made after Amodu's Position as Coach.

Can u read? Dont you see that the poster said naa April Fool.

lol

@mamagee,

April is just for fun, why ban it?

@Poster: LWKMD. that was good. i wouldn't even be suprised cos earlier in the week, the coach said he is the best nigerian player at the moment.
@Mama gee: lol. sorry o, but i didn't tak any post serious today until i read the last sentence. u know what? i'm wonderin if NTA could say in their news headlines 'STAY ON AS WE BRING YOU A LIVE BROADCAST BY PRESIDENT YARADUA' then they'll say- APRIL FOOL! lol

some april can go beyond april.
if mikel is named the captain of the eagles, i think that will get him more committed to the team.
by the way, he is the best nigerian footballer at the moment.

mama-gee:

All these dumb "April Foolers" sef, Can someone please ban them.
Anyway, thanks for bringing that to my attention.

that is what happens when u are quick to judge ppl and yes, u are always quick to judge and curse out folks

kai lai lai a useless player like mikel naija captain it can never happen. do you know that if mikel has one on one with the keeper he would back pass the ball

it is true ohhhh

Heard it on peak soccer moments this night,few minutes ago. mikel obi is the new captain and we got like 2/3 friendlies