Samuel Chukwueze: Milan confirm hip surgery as Tanzania games near

Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze has had successful surgery on a ruptured tendon in his left hip in London, and will miss both AFCON qualifiers against Tanzania.

AC Milan said the operation repaired the tendon, with Milan doctor Stefano Mazzoni present and Professor Ernest Schilders performing the procedure, as reported by Bold Sports. The winger returned to Italy the same day to begin rehabilitation, and the club has not announced a return date.

Chukwueze was hurt in Milan's 3-2 Serie A win over Atalanta at San Siro on 18 October. He then missed the Europa League trip to Bournemouth and league games against Udinese, Bologna and Inter.

Out of Uyo and Dar es Salaam

Nigeria host Tanzania in Uyo on Friday 13 November, then travel to Dar es Salaam for the return on Tuesday 17 November. Chukwueze will play no part in either game.

The Super Eagles are second in Group L, three points behind Guinea-Bissau after the 3-0 defeat in Bissau. Our look at why six points from Tanzania set up a March decider explains what the games mean, and the Tanzania squad of 24 is already named for the trip.

Analysis: Chelle loses a wide option at the worst time

Chukwueze is an important attacking option for club and country, so Eric Chelle must find another way to stretch Tanzania in Uyo. Two wins would keep Nigeria's hopes of topping the group alive, which makes every selection call in the final third matter.

If the coach turns to another winger or reshapes the front line, that choice will be one of the first things to watch when the squad list is confirmed. Milan's update on his rehabilitation is the next news to follow.