Massive Boost For Gernot Rohr Ahead Of Nigeria’s AFCON Qualifiers

The German tactician has had to deal with several withdrawals ahead of his side’s two matches, but there’s finally a relief for him 

Super Eagles manager Gernot Rohr has received a huge boost ahead of Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers after Ligue 1, and 2 clubs reneged on their decision not to allow players outside the European union to travel for international assignments.

Rohr has had to shuffle his squad after French clubs revealed they wouldn’t be releasing players outside the European Union due to Covid-19.

The decision affected the preparations of African coaches as many of the continent’s players ply their trades in France.

However, the French sports ministry has now confirmed that players can now join their national teams outside the European Zone and would not have to quarantine upon their return to France.

But the ministry added that the players would have to provide a negative test on their return, while they will also need to stay in their respective club’s bubble.

“The Ministry of Sports confirms that international players returning from official competitions outside the EU with their national team, whether French or foreign, are exempt from the seven-day waiting period as long as they comply with a strict sanitary and medical protocol (bubble + daily PCR test on their return to their club),” the Sports Ministry said on Saturday as per Reuters. 

The latest news is a boost for the Super Eagles as it now means Moses Simon and Terem Moffi, who play their football in the French top-flight, are now available for selection. 

However, it remains to be seen if both players will make the trip to Nigeria as Rohr has already called up Simon’s replacement.