Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has explained his decision to leave Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye out of Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Tanzania.
Okoye’s omission comes amid scrutiny of his recent performances for club and country. The former Watford goalkeeper has also faced criticism from Nigerian supporters over his late arrival at the Super Eagles camp during the September international break.
However, Chelle has stressed that the goalkeeper has not been permanently excluded from the national team and remains eligible for future selection.
Speaking at a press conference, the Malian coach said his squad decisions were based on his assessment of individual players and the needs of the team.
“Maduka Okoye is in the national team. I made the choice like the other players; the national team is not closed to him or them. I made my choice,” Chelle said.
His comments suggest that Okoye’s omission is a selection decision rather than a permanent ban from the national team.
Nigeria are preparing to face Tanzania in a double-header as they continue their campaign for qualification for the 2027 AFCON.
