Bayer Leverkusen attacker Victor Boniface and AC Milan wing player Samuel Chukwueze might not make Nigeria's final team. According to OwnGoalNigeria sources, they could be cut when coach Eric Chelle reduces his 39-player provisional roster to just 23 for upcoming matches.
Both players initially appeared on the big preliminary list for Nigeria's World Cup qualifying games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe scheduled later this month. Their spots seemed guaranteed earlier this year, but poor performances at their clubs created serious doubts about their inclusion. Coach Chelle feels disappointed by their limited playing time and their underwhelming showings during previous national team appearances.
People close to Chelle say he strongly values players who compete regularly. That explains why he added Sadiq Umar, Paul Onuachu, Nathan Tella, Joe Aribo, and Cyriel Dessers to his initial selection. These players see more consistent action with their clubs compared to Boniface and Chukwueze.
Unless Boniface and Chukwueze start playing better for their club teams soon, they will probably miss out on the final roster. The coach appears ready to replace them with Nathan Tella and newcomer Anthony Dennis instead. Regular playing time matters greatly in Chelle's selection process for Nigeria's important World Cup qualifying campaign.
Both players initially appeared on the big preliminary list for Nigeria's World Cup qualifying games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe scheduled later this month. Their spots seemed guaranteed earlier this year, but poor performances at their clubs created serious doubts about their inclusion. Coach Chelle feels disappointed by their limited playing time and their underwhelming showings during previous national team appearances.
People close to Chelle say he strongly values players who compete regularly. That explains why he added Sadiq Umar, Paul Onuachu, Nathan Tella, Joe Aribo, and Cyriel Dessers to his initial selection. These players see more consistent action with their clubs compared to Boniface and Chukwueze.
Unless Boniface and Chukwueze start playing better for their club teams soon, they will probably miss out on the final roster. The coach appears ready to replace them with Nathan Tella and newcomer Anthony Dennis instead. Regular playing time matters greatly in Chelle's selection process for Nigeria's important World Cup qualifying campaign.
