The Super Eagles have begun preparations for the two international friendly matches against the North African nations, but the Napoli star will not be a part of the party
The Nigeria Football Federation has confirmed that Genk forward Paul Onuachu has been invited in place of Victor Osimhen. The latter will miss the national team’s engagements against Algeria and Tunisia later this week.
In a tweet on the football body’s official Twitter account, the statement reads: “@victorosimhen9 has been excused from @NGSuperEagles’ games against Algeria and Tunisia. His replacement is Paul Onuachu.”
🔊 ❗️❗️@victorosimhen9 has been excused from @NGSuperEagles’ games against Algeria and Tunisia. His replacement is Paul Onuachu. #Team9jaStrong #SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/UGJnS6jLub
— The NFF 🇳🇬 (@thenff) October 4, 2020
While no reason was provided for the Napoli striker’s absence, it may not be unconnected with the COVID-19 pandemic.
It would be recalled that Soccernet.ng earlier reported that Osimhen could be unavailable for the October friendlies after appearing against Genoa last week. Â
The former Lille youngster featured for the entire duration as Napoli thrash Genoa by six goals.
Shortly after the encounter, however, several Genoa players were found to be positive to the coronavirus.
While there are no reports of any Napoli player testing positive to the dreaded virus, new & strict travelling regulations in Naples means none of Gennaro Gattuso’s men will be allowed to travel for international games.
Paul Onuachu, though, has been called in as Osimhen’s replacement. The Belgium-based forward has started the season in stunning fashion scoring seven goals in seven games for KRC Genk.
The former Midtjylland ace was recently named as the Pro League’s best player in September.
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