Midfielder proud to lead Team Nigeria at Rio Olympics

John Obi Mikel says he is overwhelmed to be named captain of Team Nigeria to the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio.

John Obi Mikel says he is proud to be named captain of Team Nigeria to the Olympics (Twitter/Timi Ebikagboro ) 

Nigeria International midfielder, John Obi Mikel says he is proud of being named captain of Team Nigeria to the 2016 Olympic Games.

Mikel Obi, who is one of Dream Team’s over-aged players to the Olympics has been named captain of Team Nigeria, to be assisted by tennis star Olufunke Oshonaike.

John Obi Mikel has been named the captain of Team Nigeria to the Olympics (NFF) 

Speaking on his appointment, Mikel described it as ‘overwhelming’.

"First and foremost, I will say I am overwhelmed with this opportunity to be the captain of Team Nigeria to the Rio Olympics,” the Chelsea media told the official website of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

“This is the highest accolade you can ever have as a sportsman‎ and it's one I am really looking forward to.

play John Obi Mikel is also the captain of the Super Eagles (NFF)

He further expressed his gratitude to the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports and the entire country for the opportunity to lead Team Nigeria.

"‎It's massive, it's big, it's not just the football team. I am the captain of the Super Eagles. Sometimes you look at it and you think that's a big burden, but this is even much bigger, it's one that I am looking forward to,” added.