John Obi Mikel started as Boro beat Championship rivals QPR at the Riverside on Saturday.
Steve McClaren believes Middlesbrough’s decision to sign John Obi Mikel has been a masterstroke after the midfielder impressed in their 2-0 win against QPR on Saturday, as reported by the Northern Echo.
Eyebrows were raised when Boro brought Mikel back to England in the January transfer window, signing the Nigeria international on a free from Chinese Super League outfit Tianjin TEDA.
And Mikel has silenced any doubters with some sublime performances in the centre of the park, barely putting a foot wrong in his five appearances so far; the latest of which came this weekend as Middlesbrough welcomed McClaren’s QPR team to the Riverside.
Speaking after the 2-0 defeat, secured thanks to goals from Jonny Howson and Ashley Fletcher, McClaren has taken the time to praise the former Chelsea enforcer and Boro’s decision to sign him.
“Mikel can make a difference,” said McClaren, who spent five years as Boro boss between 2001 and 2006.
“Mikel has been an excellent signing. You always have that one player in centre-midfield, who gives you stability and control, and they have a Champions League winner in there, one of the best.
“He dominates the ball. Every team needs a Mikel. I have been impressed with him and has given them an edge. For me, Mikel has changed the season.”
Mikel’s arrival has also helped get the best out of his midfield team-mate Mo Besic, who is relishing the new-found freedom afforded to him with the veteran sitting in front of the defence.
The Everton loanee was the best player on the pitch against QPR, setting up both Boro’s goals.
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