Super Eagles and Leicester City, midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has credited former Chelsea star Mikel Obi as the inspiration behind his transition from defense to midfield.
Reflecting on the early days of his career, Ndidi revealed how Mikel Obi’s style of play and influence motivated him to switch from a central defender to a midfielder, following in the footsteps of the ex-Chelsea icon.
“It was Mikel Obi. He was the one who inspired me. I used to be a central defender, but I was so in love with Mikel. When I was younger, I wanted the number twelve shirt because of Mikel at Chelsea.
“Also he was in the Premier League, so yeah,” Ndidi revealed during an interview on the Uncut show on the English Premier League YouTube channel.
“As a player in the same role now, and in the Premier League, I feel so good. Even back home, everyone wants to get on it and support their Nigerian footballers.”
“They’re so aggressive and they show a lot of intensity in watching the league, but it’s amazing.”
The Nigerian international has been in outstanding form for Leicester City this season, recently committing to a three-year contract extension.
Wilfred Ndidi has made an impact both defensively and offensively, contributing one goal and four assists so far for the Foxes.
