Mikel reveals that he has no plans to retire from international football for the time being

SUPER Eagles skipper Mikel Obi has delayed his retirement from international football for now pledging that he will continue to feature for the national team for the time being despite team mate Victor Moses quitting.

Last week, Moses, 27, announced his retirement from international football, saying he now wanted to concentrate on his club career and his family. It had been rumoured that Mikel, 30, the most senior and longest-serving player in the Super Eagles might follow suit but for now, the captain has said he has no such plans.

Next month, Nigeria plays Seychelles in an African Nations Cup qualifier and now fit again after an injury lay-off, Mikel is all set to lead the team out for the match. Yesterday, Mikel played his first league game since his involvement with Nigeria at the World Cup as his Chinese side Tianjin Teda forced visiting Jiangsu Suning FC to a 1-1 draw.

Mikel who played for the entire duration of the game, alternated between his role as the defensive midfielder of the team and that of a playmaker. Although his team failed to bag all three points, his performance was roundly praised as one of the best players on the pitch.

One source close to Mikel said: "Mikel is not done yet with the national team. He will still play for Nigeria for the foreseeable future.

"When the time for retirement comes it won’t be because of the departure of another player. For now he is still interested in playing for Nigeria."

On September 8, Nigeria will face Seychelles at the 10,000 capacity Stad Linité in a must-win qualifier after the Eagles lost their opening game 0-2 to South Africa in Uyo. Head coach Gernot Rohr has a few injury problems ahead of the match with the likes of Tyrone Ebuehi and Francis Uzoho doubtful for the game, so will be relieved to have Mikel back.