Super Eagles skipper, Mikel Obi, has been ruled out of action for the remainder of the Chinese Super League (CSL) season due to injury.
Tianjin TEDA has had to endure the majority of the campaign without their talismanic midfielder.
The ex-Chelsea, who is set to miss his fourth Super Eagles game in a row, confirmed this on Wednesday.
The Nigerian will sit out TEDA’s home game against Dalian Aerbin on Wednesday and Sunday’s final game of the season away at Guangzhou Evergrande.
“We are in a difficult situation right now. We know the importance of the remaining matches,” Mikel told the Nigerian Football Federation’s Assistant Director of Communication, Ayo Olu Ibidapo.
“I’m solidly behind the team and I believe the guys will do the job on the pitch and ensure we remain in the top flight.”
Mikel featured in 18 CSL matches this season and scored two goals providing two assists.
TEDA are currently 15th in the 16-team CSL table with 29 points from 28 points, level on points with Chongqing who currently occupy the 14th position on the table.
The modest side must win their remaining two games to stand a good chance of avoiding relegation at the end of the season.
