Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle has explained why key forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman will miss the upcoming international friendly matches against Poland and Portugal.
Chelle disclosed the reasons behind the duo's withdrawal shortly after Nigeria's emphatic 3-0 victory over Jamaica in the Unity Cup final, a result that secured the trophy for the Super Eagles.
Providing an update on his squad ahead of the June international window, the Malian tactician admitted that he is facing selection challenges, with several players currently struggling for form and fitness.
“For now, we have two games, Poland and Portugal and I have a lot of problems because some players don’t have a decent form,” Chelle told reporters after the win over the Reggae Boyz.
The former Mali coach noted that Osimhen has been excused from the squad to focus on resolving his club future following interest from several top European teams.
“Tijani, Yusuf, the most important, we will miss two players because Victor Osimhen, he might have to change a club. I prefer for him to stay in his house because if you play, you are not one hundred percent,” he said.
Chelle also revealed that former African Player of the Year Lookman would be unavailable after being granted permission to rest following a demanding campaign.
“Lookman is very tired and Atletico asked us to let him. We will travel with 18 players and we will see what happens in Poland and Portugal,” Chelle added.
Despite the absence of two of Nigeria's biggest stars, the Super Eagles boss insisted his side would approach both matches with confidence and determination.
“We will definitely make a fight, if we win we win, if we lose we lose. But if we lose, they have to work on us, they have to beat us.”
Looking ahead to the fixtures, Chelle acknowledged the quality of both opponents, particularly Portugal, whom he described as one of the strongest teams in world football.
“These two games, Poland is a good team and Portugal is maybe the best team in the world. This is a great challenge for us and for sure I want to go to their own country to beat them.”
Adeyemi Adewale
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