Samuel Chukwueze Boost For Super Eagles Ahead Afcon Qualifiers

The former Golden Eaglets hero had surgery last month, and his quick recovery would be good news to his international manager as the three-time African champions prepare for two Afcon qualifying matches in March

Samuel Chukwueze has recovered from the surgery that has kept him out of action since January, and the Super Eagles winger made the Villarreal squad that claimed a fine 2-0 victory at Salzburg on Thursday evening.

Goals from Paco Alcacer and Fer Nino in either half handed the Yellow Submarines the advantage in the first leg of their Europa League knockout round clash against the Austrian giants.

Almost as delightful as that away victory in a potentially tricky tie was the sight of Chukwueze on the substitute bench at the Red Bull Arena.

The 21-year-old has featured in only three matches for Villarreal in 2021 with his last appearance coming in the side’s 4-0 drubbing of Celta Vigo at the Abanca-Balaídos on January 8.

A troublesome groin injury prevented Chukkwueze from playing further, and he underwent successful surgery in Germany a couple of weeks ago to relieve the pain.

No return date was fixed at the time, but it is clear that the Nigerian international is back to fitness, and he’s ready to get back into action. 

That should be good music to the ears of Super Eagles head coach Gernot Rohr, who is presently drawing up a strategy, to ensure Nigeria secure the point needed to guarantee a place at the next edition of the African Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

Nigeria trade tackles with the Benin Republic and Lesotho in March. 

Chukwueze has been a regular for the Super Eagles since he made his breakthrough during the last Afcon tournament in Egypt.

The 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup winner, who made his international debut in November 2018, has made 14 appearances for the Nigerian senior team, scoring two goals.