Super Eagles Head coach, Eric Chelle has released a 23-man squad for the upcoming friendlies against Iran and Jordan, with a few notable inclusions and omissions drawing attention.
Key players including Victor Osimhen, Stanley Nwabali and Ola Aina have been left out of the squad, paving the way for new faces to step in.
Among the fresh additions are Emmanuel Fernandez and Collins Yira Sor, both earning opportunities to impress at the international level.
Emmanuel Fernandez, who plays for Rangers F.C., has featured in 26 matches across all competitions this season.
At 24 years old, his inclusion suggests a forward looking approach by Chelle as he begins to plan for the gradual transition from the current ageing options in central defence.
Philip Otele, currently on loan at Hamburger SV from FC Basel, is also included in the squad.
The striker is seen as a potential replacement for Osimhen, offering a different attacking option as the team continues to evolve.
Notably the squad is without a player from the NPFL, highlighting the continued reliance on foreign based players for national team selections.
The goalkeeping department includes Maduka Okoye, Adeleye Adebayo, and Francis Uzoho.
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In defence, the squad features Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Zaidu Sanusi, Igoh Ogbu, and Emmanuel Fernandez.
The midfield options include Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, and Fisayo Dele Bashiru.
In attack Chelle has called up Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Simon Moses, Chidera Ejuke, Paul Onuachu, Akor Adams, Philip Otele, and Collins Yira Sor.
