Nigeria calls up Mikel after long absence

John Obi Mikel has made 37 appearances for Nigeria in his career.

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ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) -- Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi has included John Obi Mikel in his squad for next month's decisive African Cup of Nations qualifying game at home to Liberia.

The Chelsea midfielder, who hasn't played for his country for a year, was one of 15 overseas-based players in Tuesday's squad of 38 for the second leg on Oct. 13.

The teams drew 2-2 in Monrovia in the first leg of the final round of qualifiers for next year's African Cup in South Africa.

Mikel was recently hounded by abuse on Twitter after his mistake for Chelsea gifted Juventus an equalizer in their Champions League game last week.

Inter Milan midfielder Joel Obi also returned to Nigeria's squad, while Lazio midfielder Ogenyi Onazi was called up for the first time.

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