What Wilfred Ndidi said about Victor Osimhen’s absence from Nigeria’s squad against South Africa and Benin

Super Eagles and Leicester City midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, is confident in Nigeria's ability to pull off a win in their upcoming World Cup qualifiers without Victor Osimhen, Soccernet.ng reports.

Osimhen was a part of Finidi George's 23-man squad to face South Africa and Benin Republic next month, but the Napoli striker picked up an injury and was replaced by Rangers full-back, Kenneth Igboke.

Ndidi, whose contract with Leicester expires in June, maintained that Osimhen is an important part of the Super Eagles team. However, the team's strength in depth softened the blow his injury will have on the team.

“Osimhen is a great player, he’s a hustler. I call him a hustler because he plays like a street footballer with strength and a strong mentality. There is no doubt that we are going to miss him. He’s quite important to the team because he drives the team forward and he has great impact. However, we have many great strikers who can bring their dynamics into the team and make an impact,” the 27-year-old said, as quoted by Sportsration.

The former Genk is fully focused on the games at hand, and he hopes the CAF Player of the Year returns from injury soon.

“It’s all about the team. This is not the time to begin to think about him not being around but to go out there and win the matches and wish him the best as he recovers from his injury,” Ndidi added.

Nigeria will take on the Bafana Bafana of South Africa at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo. The kick-off time is slated for 8 pm.