Why Chelle Picked Injured Osimhen For Super Eagles’ AFCON Qualifiers, Russia Friendly

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has included injured striker Victor Osimhen in Nigeria’s squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers and the upcoming friendly against Russia.

Osimhen has been out of action since September 4, when he suffered an injury to his right groin.

The injury had raised doubts over his availability for Nigeria’s matches against Madagascar on September 25 and Guinea-Bissau four days later.

ALSO READ:

• EPL: Why Osimhen’s Move To Arsenal, Chelsea Collapsed – Friedel
• Osimhen Would Suit Any Galatasaray Team — Terim

The striker’s possible return for Galatasaray had been pencilled in for the Turkish club’s match against Trabzonspor on September 19.

However, as of Thursday, Osimhen was still training separately from the main group. He completed an individual gym session alongside Mario Lemina.

Both players were considered unlikely to travel for the Trabzonspor fixture.

This means Osimhen has had no competitive appearance since September 4 ahead of Nigeria’s first AFCON qualifier.

Although Chelle has not explained why he included the injured striker in the squad, the Eagles coach could be keeping the option of having his first-choice forward available later in the international window.

The other centre-forward options in the squad are Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams and George Ilenikhena.