Nigeria’s preparations for the September Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers have been hit by an injury crisis, with six Super Eagles players currently sidelined ahead of the crucial international fixtures.
Among the players affected are Christantus Uche, Sadiq Umar, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Zaidu Sanusi, Tochukwu Nnadi and Yira Sor.
Uche appears to be the biggest casualty after sustaining a serious knee injury during Getafe’s pre-season friendly against Monaco on August 6. The midfielder suffered multiple ligament and meniscus tears in his right knee and has undergone surgery.
The injury has ruled Uche out for the rest of the season, effectively ending his hopes of featuring for Nigeria in the September qualifiers and potentially the AFCON finals should the Super Eagles qualify.
Sadiq Umar is also a doubt after sustaining a hamstring injury in his right leg following Valencia’s 3-1 victory over Deportivo de La Coruña. The striker has been placed on a rehabilitation programme, although the club has not given a definite date for his return.
Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has suffered another setback after sustaining a tear in his right thigh during the club’s 1-0 victory over Bologna. He is expected to spend at least three weeks on the sidelines, putting his participation in Nigeria’s September fixtures in doubt.
Porto defender Zaidu Sanusi is certain to miss the September qualifiers after suffering an adductor injury in Porto’s 3-0 victory over Académico de Viseu.
Sanusi, who had featured in every minute of Porto’s league campaign before the injury, was substituted in the 17th minute. His absence leaves head coach Eric Chelle with another defensive concern ahead of the international window.
Marseille midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi has also joined the injury list after suffering a knee injury during his side’s 2-0 defeat to Monaco.
Although Nnadi is yet to establish himself as a regular starter for Marseille, the injury could disrupt his efforts to secure more playing time and compete for a place in the Super Eagles squad.
Meanwhile, Amedspor winger Yira Sor has been ruled out for six weeks after suffering a Grade 2B hamstring injury.
Sor sustained the injury shortly after making his Super Lig debut following his pound 3 million move from Genk. He had scored for Amedspor before the setback halted his promising start at the club.
The growing list of injuries presents Chelle with a selection headache as Nigeria prepares for the September AFCON qualifiers.
With several established and emerging players unavailable or doubtful, the Super Eagles coach may be forced to turn to alternative options as he prepares his squad for the crucial fixtures.
Nigeria will be hoping that the injury situation does not worsen before the players converge for the September international window.