Super Eagles skipper, John Obi Mikel, has been named captain of Team Nigeria to this summer’s Rio Olympics.
The 29-year-old Chelsea midfielder, alongside goalkeeper, Daniel Akpeyi, was selected as two over aged players in Samson Siasia’s 18-man football contingent to the showpiece.
Both players linked up with their colleagues on Sunday in Atlanta, United States of America (USA), with Mikel welcomed with the news.
And despite uncertainties surrounding who captains the Dream Team VI, the midfielder has now been confirmed to lead his country’s quest for medals in the South American nation.
“Dream Team players congratulating Mikel Obi as captain of Team Nigeria, today after morning training, congrats,” U23 media officer, Timi Ebikagboro said on Tuesday.
Mikel who will be making his first appearance at the quadrennial showpiece replaces Africa’s fastest lady, Blessing Okagbare, as captain of Team Nigeria.
Okagbare who led the Nigerian team to the 2012 London Olympics was speculated to be in contention with basketball star, Olumide Oyedeji, while Mikel was not even considered.
But shockingly the Chelsea no 12 was picked with table tennis icon, Funke Oshonaike, named as assistant.
The Olympic is scheduled to kick-start on August 5 with Nigeria competing in football, basketball, table tennis, athletics and others.
