Stoke City manager Michael O’Neill singles out John Obi Mikel after draw at Millwall

Stoke City manager Michael O’Neill has singled out John Obi Mikel after his side played out a goalless draw against Millwall in their first championship game of the season.

The former Chelsea midfielder was playing in his first competitive game for The Potters against The Lions at The Den on Saturday.

It was the first time he was involved in such competitive game after leaving Trabzonspur in March by mutual consent.

While Stokesentinel gave the Nigerian a rating of 6 and described his performance as good and key to the result achieved:”Seemed to have more time than anyone else as he shielded in front of back four.

“A key role, particularly in difficult away games.”

His manager, Michael O’Neill felt he needs to get up to speed.

“We felt it was a game that was possibly going to be decided like that, possibly off a set piece.

“I don’t think we ever really looked like losing a goal. We looked strong defensively. We’re still trying to get up to speed, John Obi in particular, Fletch coming into the game as well and young Jacob.

“There is a lot for us to be positive about but we need to still work on the system.

“We looked strong defensively but we need to be a bit more elaborate at times in our offensive play and take care of the ball a little bit better.”

John Obi Mikel was on the pitch from the blast of the whistle until the end of the game as Stoke City start the new campaign grabbing a point at Millwall.