Pulis to Mikel: You’re a great character

Super Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi has continued to enjoy rave reviews from Middlesbrough manager, Tony Pulis despite just playing two matches since making his switch from Chinese club, Tianjin Teda last month.

Speaking ahead of tonight’s FA Cup fourth round replay against Newport, Pulis said he was particularly impressed with the way Nigerian easily blended with the young players in the team.

Mikel also impressed Pulis for the way he operated in the holding midfield role in front of the back five against West Brom in last Saturday’s league clash in the English Championship which they won 3-2 away.

“He was fantastic,” said Pulis. “He looked a little bit tired at the end but he’s a great lad, the lads have taken to him.

“He’s a great character in the dressing room and he’s got the quality you need.”

Now focused for tonight’s FA Cup encounter, Pulis who missed out on his deadline day targets, said the victory over West Brom was the perfect tonic.

“I feel like we need to win every week,” he answered. “ My thoughts after the game turn to Newport now on Tuesday night.

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“That’s the way I am, that’s the way I’ve always been. All the preparation we’ve done all week on an icy pitch, on snow and everything else has been to try and win this game. We now look to Newport.