Mikel Obi completes Stoke deal, fans react

Fans of Championship club Stoke City have reacted to the signing of former Super Eagles skipper John Mikel Obi on a free transfer on Monday.

Obi, 33, joins Stoke from Trabzonspor in March after the Potters fought off interest from elsewhere for his signature.

Obi made nearly 400 appearances for Chelsea over an 11-year stint at Stamford Bridge, helping them to win the Premier League, Champions League, Europa League, FA Cup, League Cup and Charity Shield.

Speaking upon his arrival in Staffordshire, Obi said: “There is always a way to win a game, we need to find that way.

“That mentality needs to come into the team, it’s all about winning week in, week out.”

And reacting to Obi signing, some of the fans took to the club’s Facebook page to express their thoughts.

Ben Cliff says Obi will be a good signing who will bring experience to the team.

“Definitely, will sit in front of the back 4, and let the forward-thinking players do what they do best, cuz they know they have that cover in behind them, will be a good signing and will only benefit the players around him with his leadership and experience.”

In his reaction Paul Walker described Obi as class.

“Absolutely brilliant signing… Total class!”

According to Euan Dyer: “Brilliant signing!”

Louis said Obi elevate Stone’s level.

“Great signing from us. Will bring us a level up.”

For Andy Grocott: “He’ll do a job for us in CDM and hopefully free up Powell, Allen etc to get forward. You don’t make 249 for Chelsea over 11 years for being average.”

Marc Powner wrote: “His knowledge and experience will hopefully spur on other players around him ….hopefully he will link up well with Joe Allen.”

Barry Sherratt reiterated that Obi’s experience will benefit the young players.

“Excellent signing, will also give experience to the youngsters.”

Speaking on the signing Scott Price: “Sitting in front of the back four doing simple passes breaking the play up, Mikel’s experience will help the team.”

And according to James Goold: “His presence alone will give us a strong midfield, allowing other players to attack.”