Mikel Obi will get more minutes to build his match fitness and sharpness ahead of the new Championship season following his commanding display in Shrewsbury Town 5-1 demolition as manager, Michael O’Neill says he will continue to give minutes to his squad during Stoke City’s final two pre-season friendlies this week.
Mikel joined the club last week as a free agent, having not played since mid-March when he left a Trabzonspor team he had been leading in a charge for the Turkish title.
The 33-year-old midfielder arrives with 540 senior games on his CV for club and country and a host of winner’s medals and trophies and it is hoped he can coax more out of those around him as Michael O’Neill tries to get the best out of his squad.
With the start of the campaign on Saturday 12th September fast approaching, the Potters will prepare by facing Premier League opposition.
A clash against newly-promoted Leeds United will be followed on Saturday with a trip to St. James’ Park to face Steve Bruce’s Newcastle United.
A number of players will miss the games due to international duty, meaning O’Neill will use them as a chance to build up the match sharpness of other members of his squad.
