Stoke City manager Michael O'Neill has revealed John Obi Mikel has made the club stronger with his performances.
The 33-year-old teamed up with the Potters in the summer after leaving Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor by mutual agreement.
The midfielder has continued to make his experience count for the Bet365 Stadium outfit in the 11 games he has played for the club so far.
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Mikel has helped the club keep five clean sheets since his arrival to the club to their current eighth spot on the Championship table.
O'Neill is delighted with the solid defensive performances from his club and lauded the impact of the former Super Eagles captain.