The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has issued a response to the recent controversy surrounding Umar Sadiq’s reported injury.

Initially withdrawing from Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations squad due to a knee injury sustained in the training camp, Sadiq was anticipated to be sidelined for a minimum of three weeks.

However, in a surprising turn of events the player was observed participating in training just days after departing the Super Eagles camp.

The medical team has faced significant criticism in the wake of the Player actively training with his Spanish club, Real Sociedad.

In response to the widespread criticisms, the NFF has taken a stand to provide clarification on the saga.

The statement read:

“We are surprised at the news trending on social media concerning Sadiq Umar and how he was withdrawn from the team camp. The fact is that our medical team meticulously abided by the best medical procedures and were diligent in their processes and conclusions before advising Head Coach José Peseiro that the player be withdrawn from the squad.

“The player, Sadiq Umar, was okay when he arrived at camp; he had to undergo the standard pre-competition medical assessment and he was good. ​

“He started to train with the team. Unfortunately, he copped an injury on the back of his left knee during our friendly match against Guinea in Abu Dhabi on 8th January, that led to a penalty against our opponents.

“The medical team advised that he substituted, as a cautionary measure, but he said he was fine and could continue the game. At half time, he said he reiterated that he was good to continue playing, and he played the entire 90 minutes.

“However, the following day, he woke up to see the knee swelling, and the medical team had to apply ice which is the normal thing. The same day, we had to travel to Lagos and on the 10th January, flew to Abidjan. Then, the swelling became worse.

“Most of the reports we have seen are not a true representation of what actually happened. We have a very competent medical team who are well-trained in sport and exercise medicine and highly experienced and exposed to the most modern techniques and practices.

“They followed all due processes and protocol in tandem with the consultant knee surgeon that the player himself contacted in Spain, before the decision was made in the interest of the nation and the career of the player.”