Babatunde Michael has been ruled out of Nigeria’s squad for the forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifier away in Sudan with a knee problem.
The Ukraine-based winger was the only Super Eagles player who sat out of the morning training session in Abuja on Tuesday. The Volyn FC stalwart picked up a knock while playing for his club.
Coach Stephen Keshi, in the meantime, “prays” his squad does not suffer further injury setback with Stoke City winger Victor Moses already out of the team through injury.
“We have good cover for him and we pray that he bounces back before the return leg against Sudan in Nigeria,” said Keshi.
Upon conclusion of the afternoon session on Tuesday, Keshi added that the Eagles are braced up for “success” against Sudan.
“We have put the past behind us,” the 52-year-old coach said. “We are preparing ourselves against Sudan. We are trying our best to prepare ourselves for success. Any team that is going out for a game prepare themselves to be victorious.
Nigeria are third in Group A five points adrift of leaders Congo, who have won two out of two matches- including Match Day one success over the African champions in Calabar.
Second-placed South Africa, who face a trip to Brazzaville before hosting the ‘Red Devils’ have four points. Sudan have lost their first two round of matches and are on 0 point.
“Sometimes being third on the table doesn’t matter, it only challenges you more, makes you focus more and more determined and that is what we going to do,” added Keshi.
Saturday Kick-off: 5:30pm Nigerian time.
