The trio play professional football in England's Premier League with Chelsea, Stoke and Liverpool respectively.
It was gathered that Mikel stands out as many of the fans' favourite as they roar Mikel, Mikel, Mikel from the moment he steps out of the hotel to the team's bus and onto the pitch where kids dare security personnel in a marathon race to either embrace him, clean his boot or kiss him.
Mikel is reported to always show some love by clapping and waving back at the fans.
Mikel, who is playing in his first World Cup, while speaking with newsmen on his expectations in Brazil said: "It is my first World Cup and I am ready just like other players are ready, too. The World Cup remains the highest height of every footballer's ambition.
"I am happy to be playing here but more importantly is that we have a dream of playing for each other. We want to make something out of the World Cup. It is not about individuals. It is about a team. And I am a member of the team.
"It is good to know that many expect me to lead. In this team, the coach determines what we do and we do it according to his instructions. People might not notice the roles of players but the coach knows and we do things collectively to ensure that we come out victorious.
"There is love and unity in the team. We are like a family. All the players are ready to give their best. And with these will-power, I think that we will do well because of this determination.
"I promise good outing by the team. You are aware that all teams are well prepared for the World Cup. So, no one underestimates any team. You need to work hard first and also rely on goodluck. We've been working hard and deserve to do well."
Nigeria is in Group F along side Argentina, Iran and Bosni-Herzegovina.
The South Americans currently top the group after they defeated Bosnia 2-1 early this morning.
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