Former Nigeria U23 coach, Samson Siasia, has revealed why he refused to take John Obi Mikel to the Beijing Olympics.
The previous Tremendous Eagles boss stated that by so doing he rejected about €50,000 bribe supply from Mikel’s agent, who wished the midfielder included within the squad for Beijing 2008.
Siasia stated he pleaded with Mikel, who was then warming the bench at Chelsea, to return and take part within the qualifiers however the midfielder refused.
Based on him, Mikel picked curiosity to play within the Olympics after the crew certified with out him.
A 0-0 draw with Ghana within the ultimate qualifying recreation ensured that Nigeria booked a spot on the 2008 Olympic Video games.
Nevertheless, info contradict Siasia’s declare that Mikel was warming the bench at Stamford Bridge as Mikel performed 4 consecutive Premier League video games from the beginning earlier than the Ghana vs Nigeria qualifying recreation and began 5 extra video games instantly after the qualifier.
Siasia advised Elegbete TV Sports activities, “Mikel wasn’t a starter at Chelsea then, he was on the bench. I advised him we solely had one recreation towards Ghana to play – please come and assist us.
“I stated if he doesn’t come, he received’t go anyplace. However Mikel refused to return, saying he was enjoying in Chelsea.
“Nothing occurred, we performed very effectively, on the finish of the day 0-0, we certified.
“Going to the Olympics, Mikel needs to return and play. His agent stated he would give me €50,000 so Mikel ought to play.
“I stated it’s not about €50,000. He didn’t play the qualifiers, so I’ll take out somebody that certified us and produce you in? It received’t occur. That’s why Mikel didn’t go.”
