Screw removed from Nigerian star Moses Simon’s leg ahead of Ligue 1 faceoff with Monaco

Nigerian international Moses Simon has rejoined FC Nantes’ squad after a successful operation to remove a screw and plate from his ankle, Soccernet.ng reports.

The surgery was necessitated by a fibula fracture Simon suffered in March last year, just weeks after his return from the Africa Cup of Nations, where he played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s run to the final.

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Simon is set to make a much-anticipated return to action for FC Nantes this Friday, following successful surgery to remove a screw and plate from his ankle.

The 29-year-old star has rejoined training and is available for selection as the Yellow Canaries host high-flying Monaco in a challenging Ligue 1 fixture.

Simon had been sidelined since mid-December, missing Nantes’ 1-1 league draw against Lille and their emphatic 4-0 victory over Drancy JA in the Coupe de France.

Initially believed to be nursing an injury, it has now emerged that the Nigerian underwent surgery to remove hardware inserted into his ankle following a fibula fracture sustained in March last year.

This injury came shortly after his standout performances at the Africa Cup of Nations, where he helped Nigeria secure a silver medal.

Having fully recovered, Simon’s return offers a timely boost for Antoine Kombouaré’s struggling side.

Nantes currently occupy 16th place, the relegation playoff spot, while their opponents Monaco sit third on the Ligue 1 table behind Paris Saint-Germain and Marseille.

History, however, does not favour Nantes, as they have failed to defeat Monaco in regulation time since a 1-0 victory at home in 2017.

Simon’s presence, either as a starter or an impact substitute, could be pivotal.

The Super Eagles winger has been Nantes’ standout performer this season, leading the club with four goals and five assists.

His most memorable contribution came on December 8, when he scored a spectacular late winner in a 1-0 victory over Stade Rennais.

That performance earned him Nantes’ Player of the Month award for December, adding to his September accolade.

As Nantes prepare for Friday’s clash at the Stade de la Beaujoire, they will be hoping Simon’s creativity and form can help spark an upset against a formidable Monaco side.

A positive result could be the start of a crucial turnaround for Kombouaré’s team as they battle to escape the relegation zone.