.

Super Eagles assistant captain, Ogenyi Onazi has dismissed reports he and the national team captain, John Mikel Obi are having a rift in camp ahead of the Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup.

It was claimed that both stars are no longer on talking terms due to a fight for leadership and it's distracting other players in camp.

Speaking with Complete Sports Nigeria in a chat, Onazi denied having any rift with Mikel.

“It’s ridiculous to read that I don’t take orders from him (Mikel),” Onazi told CSN. “He’s an outstanding individual and it hurts that this could be out there without verification.

“I relate well with Mikel, he is our captain and our leader. Thank you for trying to balance your reports.

“We all grew up together in Jos and he’s someone I have looked up to since I started my career. I get along with him and he has been helpful encouraging me after the criticism I received after the England game.”