Since signing for Middlesbrough in what was seen as a very surprising transfer deal, John Obi Mikel has been a revelation at the Riverside Stadium for Tony Pulis' men.

The Nigerian midfielder has adjusted back to life in English football with ease, and has been a regular in the Boro first-team since his arrival from Tianjin Teda last month.

It has been a decent time for Middlesbrough of late - the North East club have lost just one of their last eight league games, and Mikel has been a solid figure in midfield over the last four league games.

He's a loveable character, he was at Chelsea and is proving to be the same at Middlesbrough, with his latest Instagram post showing that he is taking to the town and exploring the local area.

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Mikel will be looking to keep on putting in solid performances for Tony Pulis' men, who are still in with a shout of promotion via the play-offs this season.

Boro currently sit 5th in the Sky Bet Championship table, three points clear of Derby County in 7th position after a 1-0 win at Blackburn Rovers at the weekend.

The Verdict

I have been really impressed with Mikel since he signed for Boro - he still continues to showcase his quality and composure on the ball in the middle of midfield.

There was a slight worry when he signed that he'd just be another ageing player earning a high wage, but he has certainly silenced any of his critics.

He looks to be enjoying his time in Middlesbrough on and off the pitch, and he will look to keep on improving.