Europa League news: Mikel Obi to start for Chelsea against Sparta Prague

Chelsea are set to seal round 16 slot in the Uefa Europa League as they host Sparta Prague at Stamford Bridge today. The West London side had won 1-0 in their first leg away tie to Sparta Prague which placed
them on an upper hand to cruise on to the next round.

According to match previews, it has been reported that, the club manager Rafa Benitez has preferred Obi Mikel to start for Chelsea today and rest Frank Lampard. The Nigerian international will be featured today to play his first game for Chelsea after winning the 2013 Nations Cup with Nigeria in South-Africa. The Nigerian midfielder returned to London last week after having a cool celebration with his fans and Mr President.

Meanwhile, Obi's compatriot, Victor Moses returned before the midfielder and played his first game against Brentford last Sunday in Chelsea's 4-0 win in the fourth round of the FA Cup. The Blues manager, Rafael Benitez had told the club official website that Mikel's return will allow Frank Lampard to be rested.

"It's important to be fit and train properly, and Frank will not be in the squad tomorrow as we have to manage the group and think about all the other games," He told chelseafc.com.

Before the match against Brentford last Sunday, Benitez had expressed happiness to have both his Nigerians back and in good shape with a positive winning mentality. "I think they will come back with more confidence, more belief and it has to be good for the team," Benitez said.

"It's important to have happy and confident players around, so it's good for the team that they won and they've brought that confidence and belief back with them.

"Both of them progressed as individuals through the tournament. "Obi has more experience and you could expect good performances from him, but Victor was coming through and I could see he has been growing
and improving. "I am really pleased for both of them, and to be so influential is a great achievement for Victor."

Cyracks Zenda

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