Father of Obi Mikel alive and well

The father of Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has been found alive after being kidnapped 10 days ago, according to reports.

Michael Obi was found in the city of Kano on Monday, having last been seen on the August 12, reports the BBC.

The Nigerian is reported to have been kidnapped in Jos before being transfered to Kano, and is alleged to be showing signs of being beaten.

“I am very stressed,” he said.

“Earlier today Michael Obi called his family to advise them that he had been released by his abductors,” Mikel’s management company Sport Entertainment & Media Group (SEM) said in a statement on Monday night.

“SEM have waited until now to release this information, to ensure that Michael was safe.”

“John Obi Mikel would like to thank everyone in Nigeria, his family and friends, Chelsea FC and their fans and his agents for their total support during this terrible time.”

During the time of his father’s disappearance, Mikel continued to play for Chelsea, prompting his manager Andre Villas-Boas to praise the midfielder’s “amazing mental toughness”.

“I wouldn’t want to let the club down and if I didn’t play that game I think my mum would be very sad,” Mikel said after Chelsea’s 0-0 draw with Stoke.

Michael Obi’s abductors are reportedly in police custody in Kano.