Nigeria’s preparations for their final Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Rwanda have been overshadowed by a growing injury list, Soccernet.ng reports.
Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has emerged as a significant doubt, following a knock sustained in training, while Ola Aina has been ruled out entirely.
Dele-Bashiru, who joined the national camp ahead of Thursday’s 1-1 draw with Benin, reportedly picked up a minor injury during a training session.
Italian outlet La Lazio Siamo Noi revealed that the midfielder’s setback influenced coach Augustine Eguavoen’s decision to leave him on the bench for the Benin clash.
The same source suggests Eguavoen is likely to adopt a cautious approach for Monday’s game in Uyo, with Dele-Bashiru expected to remain on the bench.
Given that the Super Eagles have already secured their place in the Africa Cup of Nations, Eguavoen sees no reason to risk the player.
Lazio will be eager to assess the midfielder upon his return to Rome, with hopes that his condition will not affect their Serie A campaign.
Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina will miss the Rwanda fixture after sustaining a knock during the Benin game.
The right-back, who was substituted shortly after Victor Osimhen’s equaliser, flew back to England for a medical assessment.
Aina has been a key figure for Forest, featuring in all 11 of their Premier League games this season under Nuno Espírito Santo.
In other news, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali will also be unavailable, having been granted compassionate leave following the loss of his father.
The Super Eagles are scheduled for an open training session at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Saturday at 4:30 pm local time, as they finalise preparations for their clash with Rwanda’s Wasps.