Mikel is weak and tired- Mourinho

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho announced a clean bill of health of his squad at Friday’s pre-match media briefing but ruled out Nigeria’s John Obi Mikel for Saturday’s Premier League clash with Stoke City at Stamford Bridge.

Mikel has been back to full training again following minor knee surgery but will not be considered for this weekend’s game according to the Portuguese tactician, explaining that rehabilitation training differs significantly from training for match action.

“Mikel is fine and working all week with the group but he is very tired so he is not selected, but he is not injured.

“He is tired because he was injured for a month, he had surgery and he was not working with the group, so after four sessions with the group he needs time to adapt and needs time to be in condition.” Mourinho is quoted as saying on the Chelsea’s official website.

The gaffer explained that Mikel’s tiredness is different from that attributed to Eden Hazard following his international action as the Belgian has been declared fit to face Mark Hughes’ men on Saturday.