Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has broken his silence on his Nigeria World Cup omission.
The 23-year-old joined up late with the Super Eagles after minor knee surgery had cut short his Chelsea season, and the decision has now been taken to remove him from the 23-man squad.
"It is the same knee and I did not want to risk any further damage, also I think it is in the best interest of the team for me to withdraw rather than waste a slot," explained the Chelsea man.
"I wish the team good luck and I know that they will surprise people."