The newly appointed coach of the senior national team of Nigeria Eric Chelle will head into the world cup qualifiers games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe respectively with just three center backs available for selection, OwnGoalNigeria.com reports.
Chelle will in March handle the Super Eagles for the first time when they take on Rwanda in Kigali, before having his baptism of fire at home when they play against Zimbabwe in Uyo . Both games are crucial to the chances of Nigeria making it to the 2026 World Cup.
Ahead of the game, Chelle have one major headache in defence with just three senior center backs in William Troost-Ekong, Gabriel Osho and Calvin Bassey available for selection. Three others are currently out injured or inactive.
All three available center backs could be on the pitch at the same time if the coach decides to play a back three. Leaving no senior defender on the bench for both games.
Vice captain Kenneth Omeruo tops the list of center backs who won’t be available due to lack of match fitness, after he recently left Turkish side Kasimpasa following the mutual termination of his contract. He has sparingly played since his move to the club due to injuries and fitness concerns.
Semi Ajayi who has played in all but two of the team’s games the past 18 months is also unavailable due to injury. English Championship side West Bromwich Albion expects him to be back in March, but not fully match fit.
The situation has now potentially open the door for a recall for the trio of either Leon Balogun, Jordan Torunarigha or Kevin Akpoguma. There is also the possibility of calling a new defender as back up.
Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman
