1998 FIFA World Cup winner, Marcel Desailly, has admitted he was left in awe after training with Mikel Obi for the first time, Soccernet.ng reports.
Mikel had impressed for Nigeria at the FIFA U-17 World Cup and was on the books of several clubs including Manchester United and Chelsea.
He went on trial at both clubs, and his talent kept Desailly on his toes. Speaking on punditry duties with BeIN Sports , the Frenchman revealed Mikel was the only youngster in England who left him stunned.
Mikel, in response to Desaillys praise, mentioned he was thrilled with the opportunity he had to impress players of such stature in the game.
Mikel eventually joined Chelsea in the summer of 2006 and went on to play almost 400 games for the Blues, scoring six goals and providing thirteen assists. He also won the English Premier League title twice, the UEFA Champions League once and the Emirates FA Cup four times during his stay at Stamford Bridge.
