At least five players from Nigeria’s original 28-man roster for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations have withdrawn.
Odion Ighalo of Al Shabab is the latest player to withdraw due to contractual responsibilities with his Saudi Arabian club.
Feyenoord forward Cyril Dessers is expected to take Ighalo’s spot.
Prior to it, after contracting COVID-19, Napoli’s hotshot Osimhen was left off the final roster. As the athlete recovers from face surgery, his Serie A team has threatened legal action.
Watford forward, Dennis Emmanuel, was also excused after his club blocked his departure, claiming the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) sent his invitation letter late.
Leon Balogun and the versatile Abdullahi Shehu are both out with injuries.
Tyrone Ebuehi and Semi Ajayi return to the squad, while Osimhen has been replaced by Henry Onyekuru who was also at the last tournament in Egypt.
Dennis’ place will be taken by the Czech Republic-based forward Peter Olayinka.