The Super Eagles have encountered a setback prior to their international friendlies, as defender Calvin Bassey has been ruled out due to a back injury.
The centre-back from Fulham FC, who excelled for Nigeria during the last Africa Cup of Nations, will not be available for the upcoming matches against Iran and Jordan in Antalya, Turkey.
Bassey’s absence poses a considerable challenge for head coach Eric Chelle, considering the defender’s reliability and impact on the team.
He was among Nigeria’s top performers at the previous AFCON tournament held in Morocco, securing a spot in the Team of the Tournament after contributing to the Super Eagles’ third-place finish.
In spite of this setback, preparations are ongoing in camp with a nearly complete squad, as captain Wilfred Ndidi has joined his teammates to strengthen the group.
Team officials have confirmed that 22 players are currently present in camp, ready for the first training session on Wednesday, as the squad intensifies its preparations.
Previously, the camp received a boost with the arrival of key attacking players Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams, enhancing the team’s offensive capabilities.
Defensive alternatives still available to Chelle include Semi Ajayi, Zaidu Sanusi, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Igoh Ogbu, who are anticipated to rise to the occasion in Bassey’s absence.
Nigeria is set to compete against Iran on 27 March, followed by a match against Jordan on 31 March, with both games scheduled to take place in Antalya after being relocated from Amman due to security issues in the Middle East.
With 22 players now in camp and training in progress, the Super Eagles aim to swiftly adapt to Bassey’s absence as they continue their preparations for the significant friendlies.
