Mikel impresses Hiddink despite 2-2 draw with Watford

RETURNEE manager of Chelsea, Guus Hiddink showered encomiums on John Mikel Obi despite the team's 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge on a Boxing Day.
 
The Nigeria international came on to replace Cesc Fabregas in the 46th minute, and his inclusion brought some level of stability into the Blues defence to the delight of his Dutch manager.
 
Hiddink who took over from sacked Portuguese manager, Jose Mourinho, said on the Blues official website that he was impressed with the performance of Mikel, whose close range shot almost delivered full points for the London side.
 
"I liked our intensity but we also have to look for a balance in the team. It’s a very attacking-orientated team.
"When we have a midfield with all creative players it’s beautiful but sometimes you need a balance and I thought John Obi gave us that balance.
 
“When you have the creative players such as Matic, Oscar, Willian coming inside and Cesc as well, sometimes you have to choose in a different way," said Hiddink, who had earlier coached Chelsea in 2009 season.
 
Meanwhile, Chelsea will on Monday night Manchester United, whose manager, Louis van Gaal, has been under intense pressure to resign following a spate of poor results.
 
The Red Devils lost 0-2 to Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium also on a Boxing Day with goals from Bojan Krkic and Marko Arnautovic thus; need victory to save the job of van Gaal, who is equally ready to throw in the towel if the result of Monday's game call for it.

Caption: Mikel Obi.