Mikel Demonstrates Readiness To Take Up Makelele's Mantle

In the aftermath of yesterday's 4-0 win over Portsmouth, many column inches have been filled and words been spoken about Deco, who rounded off a brilliant performance yesterday with a scorching 30 yarder. But also of great joy to me was the performance of John Obi Mikel, who demonstrated that he is able to fill the gap left by the departed Claude Makelele.

Calm on the ball, strong, and faultless in his distribution, Mikel acted as a screen in front of the defence and allowed Deco, Lampard and Ballack to roam forward and cut Portsmouth open so incisively.

Mikel has a number of advantages on Makelele, which makes me hope his development continues on an upward curve. The Nigerian is much stronger and taller, giving him the ability to cut out balls played towards the opposition strikers, snuffing out potential danger.

His strength also allows him to retain the ball better than Makelele. While Makelele was always good at drawing the foul and winning a free-kick, Mikel's strength means that the rhythm of the team's play isn't stopped.

I've been one of Mikel's biggest fans for a while now, stating my belief that he can be one of the best midfielders in the Premier League. His class on the ball is often unnoticed and not touched upon by pundits and journalists, and therefore fans who don't watch Chelsea's games don't notice him.

The one aspect of Mikel's game that he needs to improve is his tackling. Football fans will remember his sendings off last season against Man United and Everton, both of which were undeserved in my opinion.

It is a sad thing to say but it seems some referees want to outlaw the sliding tackle in English football, and Mikel has been the victim on a number of occasions whereas other players have got off scot free. Dirk Kuyt against Everton anyone?

Essien's absence yesterday through injury gave Mikel his chance to shine and he grabbed it with both hands. Such a performance has given Luiz Felipe Scolari another nice problem to have.

Mikel could find himself sitting on the bench when Essien does return, but Scolari can feel happy knowing he has a more than adequate replacement waiting in the wings.