Several players from Nigeria’s Super Eagles, including Taiwo Awoniyi, Ola Aina and Jamiu Collins, have been replaced due to injury concerns within the squad.
Super Eagles head coach Jose Peceiro has given detailed insight into why he brought on Terem Moffi for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen in the 55th minute of the match, reports Soccernet.ng.
24-year-old Nigerian striker Osimhen was substituted due to injury but only played 58 minutes. Peseiro said the decision was made to avoid putting the players at risk, as a report would be sent to each player’s club after the match.
The substitution could be another setback for Peseiro’s side following Taiwo Awoniyi’s injury, leaving them without a talisman for Monday’s game against Mozambique.
Peseiro told the media after the match that Osimhen will undergo an MRI scan to assess the extent of the injury, which will ultimately determine his availability for the game against Mozambique.
“Victor has now gone into the room to carry out an MRI scan to check the situation. We have good coordination and communication with the club. I don’t know if you know. However, we send a report to the club after every match. We are in touch with all the physiotherapists and trainers,” he said.
Peseiro emphasized that Osimhen is an important player for both the national team and his club Napoli. It is their responsibility to ensure his health.
“Our responsibility is to monitor the health of the player. He is a great player. Napoli needs him and we need him too. All for Osimhen It’s our responsibility to do that, talk to the doctors, call the clinic to find out if he can play. But within three days we will put Osimhen on constant observation” > he continued.
As for Osimhen’s availability for the match against Mozambique, Peseiro said that tests will be carried out and if there is no improvement, the club will take the necessary decisions.
He further added: “My opinion at this point is, are we going to use an injured player? Is he injured for a month or is he going to be injured for two months? It’s better to keep that in mind for him now. . He should be tested and checked and if he doesn’t improve then he should expect the club to make a final decision and the club will pay the salary for him. Not only for Osimhen, but also for our players. ”
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In a recent match, Nigeria’s Super Eagles drew 2-2 with the Saudi national team. The team was hoping to build on their success last time out against Sao Tome and Principe, but Osimhen’s injury could affect their preparations for the 2023 AFCON tournament.
