Joel Obi is ready to step into the vacant shoes of captain Mikel Obi, who will miss Friday’s friendly against Poland.

Held up by work permit issues, Mikel has been ruled out of the first of two friendlies lined up for the Super Eagles but, team coordinator Patrick Pascal has hinted Joel Obi could fill in for the 30-year-old.

‘Joel Obi trained well Yesterday and we have no worries about his fitness. John Ogu and Onazi as well as Wilfred Ndidi trained well.

‘Obviously, we can’t cancel the friendly because of the absence of the captain, but we’re certain the other players are ready to fill that vacuum.’

In addition, Pascal told Babafemi Raji on Brila FM’s Sports Machine that Mikel Obi is expected to speak with the team later on Wednesday.

‘Mikel will speak with the players Today, though he won’t be here. He’s a great influence on the team; on the young and even the senior players.’