Nigerian international, John Obi Mikel, was again rooted to Chelsea’s benched as Chelsea played out a one-all draw against Schalke 04 in a UEFA Champions League tie on Wedsnesday at the Stamford Bridge.
Mikel, who was not dressed in their 4-2 win over Swansea last weekend failed to taste action once again as Chelsea’s manager Jose Mourinho opted for Nemanja Matic, Cesc Fabregas and Ramires for the holding midfield role.
Mikel’s compatriot, Chinedu Obasi , however tasted action for only four minutes. The striker who failed to make the Super Eagles Nation Cup qualifiers against Congo and South Africa replaced Julian Draxler in the 86th of the encounter.
Cesc Fabregas scored his first Chelsea goal but was unable to help Jose Mourinho’s side to victory in their Champions League group-stage opener as they were held by Schalke.
The Spain midfielder, 27, who joined from Barcelona in the summer, swept in the opener from Eden Hazard’s pass.
Didier Drogba shot wide when through before striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar drove in an equaliser after a counter.
Chelsea’s Loic Remy had a shot cleared off the line as Schalke held on.