If you were to apportion the blame for Wednesday’s shocking defeat to Roma in the Champions League, most of it would be placed firmly on the shoulders of John Obi Mikel.
The Nigerian was at fault for two of Roma’s three goals - conceding the free kick that led to the opener from Panucci, and losing possession to Vucinic who added his second, and Roma’s third.
The criticism was warranted, but when taken into context, the performance is the first below par shift the midfielder has put in all season. He has grown into the defensive midfield role in the absence of Michael Essien and the now-departed Claude Makelele.
Alongside Frank Lampard he has been one of Chelsea’s best players this season.
His ability to retain possession and spread the play have been key in Chelsea’s rise up the table. He has came on leaps and bounds from last season, a season which was often characterised by his rushes of blood to the head. Mikel’s usual calm demeanour may have deserted him in Rome, but he is still growing as a player.
At 21 years old, he has plenty of time to improve and develop as a player.
Luiz Felipe Scolari may demote him to the bench after Wednesday’s performance, but fans shouldn’t be too harsh on a player who has had a storming season far, and hopefully can find that form again soon enough.
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