Nigeria U23 coach Samson Siasia insists he is counting on Chelsea's John Obi Mikel, despite criticising the midfielder last week.

Siasia's declaration came against the backdrop of criticism of Obi Mikel's attitude to national team calls in recent times.

"Mikel is a Nigerian, he is still within the Under- 23 age bracket" Siasia told Tidesports. "He can still play for us if he makes up his mind. The camp is still open for him.

"I can't stop him from playing for his fatherland but he has to make up his mind."