Okocha wants Mikel in  the Super Eagles

Former Super Eagles captain, Austin Okocha has said Chelsea midfielder, John Obi Mikel is key to Super Eagles' 2013 Afcon campaign and our best players cannot be shut out of the race for South Africa 2013 showpiece.

"I think we're looking at improving with every game and bringing Mikel back, of course, is a plus for us. Mikel is about one of our best players, no matter what we think about it, we still need him.

"He is an important player, I think it's a good goal to have him," said Okocha.

Jayjay who is arguably Nigeria’s best midfielder of all time believes that a blend of the domestic and foreign-based players is a positive path to success.

"Well, I think it's the way forward because the professionals started back home before venturing abroad to become professionals.

"I think the coach should always play his best players in every game," he said.

Okocha said we need not lose sleep trying to know the make up of the Liberian team.

"The key for me is getting it right on the matchday, do our home work well.

"Aside that we don't need to bother ourselves about our opponents," he said.