I want to be as great as Mikel Obi — Chelsea midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu

Mikel Obi enjoyed a hugely successful 11-year spell at Chelsea and remains one of the club's most beloved midfielders.

The ex-Super Eagles midfielder was an ever-present for Chelsea, making 372 appearances, scoring six goals, and contributing 13 assists.

Now, Blues summer signing Lesley Ugochukwu has revealed his intention to follow in the footsteps of the Chelsea icon.

Ugochukwu arrived from Ligue 1 side Rennes in the summer and has highlighted the impact and legacy of Mikel Obi at Chelsea.

“Just look at all the trophies he [Mikel Obi] has won and the legends that have passed through the club,” Ugochukwu remarked, via Chelsea’s official website. 

 “They say I can become a great midfielder like him if I put in the work and everything goes well. I want to be like him but it’s up to me to prove that I can have my place in the long term. I wanted to take this step. When a club of this stature comes in for you, it’s very difficult to refuse.

 “I have great confidence in myself, in my qualities, in what I can do. I know that if I do things correctly, everything will go as planned. I have the trust of the club, of the staff, that’s what pushed me to say to myself: Go for it! If they came for you, it’s because you have the qualities.”