Super Eagles attacker Chidera Ejuke is doubtful for Sevilla's La Liga clash against Barcelona at Camp Nou this weekend, Soccernet.ng reports.
Ejuke has been a reliable squad player for Los Nervionenses this season, featuring in 22 games across all competitions with one goal and one assist to his name.
This season, he has started just four games in La Liga, but he has frequently acted as an impact player off the bench, helping Sevilla turn the tide in the second half of matches.
Two weeks ago, he played a key role in helping Los Nervionenses salvage a 2-2 draw against Real Betis, earning praise from assistant manager Javi Martinez.
This weekend, Sevilla face one of their biggest tests of the season as they travel to the Camp Nou to take on defending champions Barcelona.
However, there are significant doubts over Ejuke's availability heading into the match, as the 28-year-old was absent from training on Wednesday.
According to Spanish outlet AS Futbol, he was not spotted at the club's training ground because he is dealing with a discomfort. As such, he has had to skip training to avoid a serious injury.
How Important Could Ejuke Be For Sevilla Against Barcelona?
In the reverse fixture between Sevilla and Barcelona, Ejuke assisted Akor Adams' goal, which wrapped up a sweet 4-1 win in front of the fans at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán.
He was a stoppage-time substitute in that game, but he managed to influence the play despite his minimal minutes on the pitch.
In this upcoming fixture at the Camp Nou, Ejuke's skill set could be a vital asset for coach Matías Almeyda.
Barcelona typically play a high defensive line. So naturally, using quick players is the best way to exploit that space. Ejuke certainly has pace to burn.
He is also a gifted dribbler, meaning coach Almeyda could give him specific instructions to hold up the ball and create openings for the strikers.
Whether he starts or makes an impact off the bench, the assist he provided in the previous meeting should give him a significant confidence boost.
The game is scheduled for Saturday, and Ejuke will be hoping to prove his fitness in time to help his side secure three vital points and climb higher up the La Liga table.
