Chelsea star John Obi Mikel is desirous to feature once again at the Olympics after leading the country to a bronze medal finish in Rio 2016.
A joyous Mikel said he won’t hesitate to represent the country at the Olympics if such opportunity present itself in the future.
‘I was obviously very clear before travelling to Brazil that my target was the gold medal, but to get the bronze is still an amazing achievement,’ Mikel said.
‘There was a celebration at the hotel afterwards, we were all jumping around. Everyone was so excited. But we managed to get everyone to sit down together and have a team meal. After everything we have been through, it was great to have something to show for it and we all thanked each other.
‘It really is a dream come true for me. I might take the medal to the Chelsea training ground to show to the other players – I hope I don’t make them jealous though!’
Mikel stressed the experience has given him physical and psychological benefits as he prepares to rejoin Antonio Conte’s squad at Cobham.
‘It’s provided me with a nice lift as I return to Chelsea. I will go back to see the manager and see what his plans are for me. I want to get back into training and prove myself. I want to play and help the team to win games.
‘I know it will be difficult because I have missed most of pre-season and the coach has a new way of playing. But it is a positive thing for me that I have been playing well in Brazil and I’m in good shape.
‘I will need a few days off first because this tournament has been so draining. I arrive back in London on Wednesday morning and the game against Burnley on Saturday will come too early to feature in.
‘The plan is to have a little break, which is why the timing couldn’t be better as the season stops for two weeks for international fixtures after the Burnley game anyway.
‘It will give me plenty of time to enjoy my bronze medal and reflect on what has been a magical few weeks in my football career.’
Mikel was one of two overage players selected by the Dream Team handler Samson Siasia for the Games.
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