Mikel, Azubuike lead Nigerian contingent in Europa League

Former Super Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi, and U23 captain, Okechukwu Azubuike, will lead other Nigerians in the 2019/2020 Europa League season.

The Europa League group stages kick off on Thursday with Mikel, Azubuike and at least six other Nigerians set to do battle for their respective European clubs in Europe’s second tier club competition.

Mikel and two of his compatriots, Ogenyi Onazi and Anthony Nwakaeme will wear the colours of Turkish side, Trabzonspor, who kick-start their season with a tricky away game at Spanish outfit, Getafe.

Of the trio, only Onazi is a doubt for their opener as the midfielder is still recuperating from his injury.

Azubuike’s Istanbul Basaksehir have it all to do when they take on Serie A side, AS Roma at the Stadio Olympico in Rome.

The match will be the first competitive clash between the two sides, with Azubuike assured of a start.

Another Nigerian set for tonight’s Europa League is Super Eagles new sensation, Joe Aribo.

Aribo will be looking to continue his impressive start to the season for Scottish outfit, Rangers when they welcome Dutch team, Feyenoord to Ibrox Stadium.

The 23-year-old will be accompanied by fellow Nigerian at the club, Sheyi Ojo.

In England, Uche Agbo and Braga face a difficult task at the Molineux, home of English Premier League club, Wolverhampton Wanderers, while former youth international, Rabiu Ibrahim’s Slovan Bratislava are at home to Turkish side Besiktas.

Belgian side, Gent, will host Ligue 1 club, Saint-Etienne, with two Nigerians on their payroll, Philip Azango and Reuben Yem.