Stanley Nwabali won’t be automatically reinstated as the first choice goalkeeper of the senior national team of Nigeria despite his return to club football, OwnGoalNigeria.com can exclusively reveal.
Nwabali left South Africa side Chippa United in February for a new adventure and his absence the Super Eagles coach relied on Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye in their major friendly games, since finishing third at the AFCON.
A few weeks ago, Nwabali returned to Chippa United and recently starred in a friendly tournament, sparking talks of reclaiming his number one spot with the senior national team of Nigeria.
However sources close to the head coach of the Nigerian team Eric Chelle say in a bid to create competition in the team, he will keep the faith in Okoye when they return to action in September.
Okoye will head into the AFCON 2027 qualifiers as first choice, but will also be aware that the duo of Nwabali and Arthur Okonkwo are waiting in the wing for a chance.
Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman
