Mikel converted to central defender in China

Tianjin Teda Get First Draw
Super Eagles captain, John Obi Mikel impressed in a new position as a central defender yesterday as Tianjin Teda were held to a goalless draw by Jiangsu Suning at Nanjing Olympic Sports Center, according to allnigeriasoccer.com.

Tianjin Teda coach Jaime Pacheco was worried that his team conceded so many goals during their warm-up games in pre-season, and Mikel had to be drafted into the central defense in some of the matches.

Yesterday, the former Chelsea star was partnered by Pan Ximing in central defense and helped goalkeeper Du Jia to post a shutout.

Originally an attacking midfielder, Mikel was converted into a defensive midfielder by Jose Mourinho and played as a center back in two competitive matches while he was at Stamford Bridge.

Mikel has told Tianjin Teda coach Pacheco that he is willing to play any position for the team.