Fifa adds Mikel's World Cup journey to its museum as Eagles skipper continues to shine for Boro

FOOTBALL federation Fifa has added Super Eagles' skipper Mikel Obi's World Cup jersey worn in the 2-0 win over Iceland at the Volgograd Arena in Russia last summer to its museum in Zurich.

Now one of the darlings of the English Championship having joined Middlesboro in January, Mikel has become a fans' favourite in the northeast following his brilliant performances over the last month. Not only has his contributions helped secure vitals wins that have pushed Boro into the play-off places but he also regularly makes the Championship Team of the Week.

Capping off a brilliant month for Mikel, Fifa has now decided to keep the jersey he won in that historic win its museum. In that match, two goals from Ahmed Musa enabled Nigeria to secure victory and three points, although the team failed to advance to the second round after succumbing to a late goal from Argentina in the final group game which the Eagles lost 1-2.

Getting over that disappointment, Mikel left China in December and returned to England where he has transformed Boro's season. Former England manager and current Queens Park Rangers (QPR) boss Steve McClaren is one of his big fans, praising Mikel's contribution to Middlesboro's recent 2-0 league win over his side.

Mr McClaren said: "Every team needs a Mikel and I think Mikel has been an excellent signing. You always have that one player who gives you stability, control, never gives the ball away.

They've got one of the best, a Champions League winner who dominates in there, he takes care of the ball. He's certainly the kind of enforcer in there, defensively and he keeps the ball ticking. I've been impressed with him and he's given another edge to Middlesbrough."

A few eyebrows were raised when Boro signed Mikel as he was short of match fitness and returning from a stint in China. However, he has slotted seamlessly into the Boro side, has hardly missed a minute since he signed and has barely put a foot wrong, bossing the midfield and allowing the midfielders in front of themselves to shine and express themselves.

A fortnight ago, Mikel was named in the Championship Team of The Week after starring in a 1-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers. Boro fans have labelled him the African Zidane on the back of his imperious displays since transferring to the club last month.