The 32-year-old has called time on
his international career after their third-place finish in Egypt
Nigeria captain John Obi Mikel has
announced his retirement from international football.
His decision to quit the national
team came hours after the country's third-place finish at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
Mikel battled injuries in Egypt and was limited to two games during
the group stage, against Burundi and Madagascar.
The former Chelsea player
has been a key member of the Super Eagles since he made his debut appearance
against Libya in August 2005.
During his stint in the national team, Mikel played in two
Fifa World Cup tournaments and four Africa Cup of Nations, where he won
the title in 2013 and a bronze medal in 2019.
"Egypt is
a country where I’ve started and have finished my national career," Mikel
wrote on Instagram.
"In 2006 I played my first official championship for
my country. 2019 African Cup of Nations marks my last championship for the
national team with Super Eagles.
"My national career started in 2003, under 17 World
Cup and I’m grateful to the national team for placing me on the world arena and
giving me an opportunity to show my skill and have an incredible national and
international career.
"At the age of 32, it’s time for me to retire from
the national team and let the youth take over, who’ve done an amazing job
securing a bronze medal at Afcon 2019.
"Thank you to all my Nigerian supporters and to my
country for all the trust, support and love you’ve shown me over the past 15
years."
Source: GOAL.COM
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