Author: Aishat Akanni

Balogun, if fit and in form, could strengthen the defensive options for new head coach Eric Chelle, who is set to announce his squad soon.

Despite injury concerns, Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (ankle) and Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye (out since December) have also been named.

Eric Chelle has a massive task ahead. Since his appointment, he has been travelling across Europe, watching Nigerian players and meeting key figures like Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon as he finalizes his squad.

In response, the London club swiftly issued a statement condemning the abuse and reiterating their full support for the Nigerian international.

As Club Brugge prepares for their showdown against Aston Villa, Onyedika’s return will provide a timely lift, not just for his club but also for Nigeria’s national team hopes.

Dele-Bashiru joined Lazio on a season-long loan from Turkish side Hatayspor, with the Italian club holding an option to buy him for €7 million.

Nigeria’s Ahmed Musa, the country’s most-capped player and a 2013 AFCON winner, also responded with a powerful statement.

With Osimhen leading the attack, they will be desperate to claim maximum points and reignite their qualification hopes.

So far, Iheanacho has struggled for match sharpness, having made only two starts in the three months before joining Boro.

If Nigeria can convince him to commit to the Super Eagles, he could be the solution to the team’s long-standing goalkeeping concerns.