Nigeria Has 18 Players Available for Russia Friendly

Nigeria had 18 players available in camp ahead of its international friendly against Russia after injuries, club non-release decisions and a residence-permit problem kept several players from travelling, the Nigeria Football Federation said. The match is scheduled for Tuesday, October 6, in Nizhny Novgorod. The NFF said captain Wilfred Ndidi was unavailable with a minor knock sustained during the preceding Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Guinea-Bissau. Switzerland-based defender Victory Akpe was also out injured. The federation said Eintracht Frankfurt did not release midfielder Raphael Onyedika, while clubs prevented defender Bright Osayi-Samuel and midfielder Ridwan Abdulrasaq Popoola from travelling. The NFF also said Austrian club LASK declined a late request for forward Moses Usor, who had not originally been included in the travelling group. Midfielder Suleiman Mubarak, invited from Slavia Prague, could not make the trip because his residence permit had not been secured. The reported reasons for the absences were based on the federation’s account. The 18-player group listed in camp comprised three goalkeepers, five defenders, four midfielders and six forwards.