Eric Chelle has left out forwards Kelechi Iheanacho and Tolu Arokodare from Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming Unity Cup in London, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.
Iheanacho had been strongly linked with a return to the Nigeria national football team after rediscovering form with Celtic F.C., scoring four goals in his last three matches. Despite the striker’s resurgence, Chelle opted against recalling the experienced forward as he continues reshaping the squad ahead of future international competitions.
Instead, the Franco-Malian tactician handed opportunities to emerging attackers Owen Oseni of Plymouth Argyle F.C. and Rafiu Durosinmi, who currently plays for Pisa Sporting Club.
Arokodare was also omitted despite recently featuring in the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C. Chelle instead recalled Terem Moffi, who recently celebrated a league title success during his loan spell with FC Porto.
Nigeria’s attack for the Unity Cup is expected to revolve around Moffi, Oseni, and Durosinmi, while Femi Azeez has also been included among the attacking options.
Moffi is likely to lead the line in the absence of Victor Osimhen, who is unavailable for the tournament. The striker previously missed Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign following inactivity after his exit from OGC Nice amid reported issues with supporters.
Oseni’s invitation is viewed as one of the biggest surprises in the squad. However, sources close to the team revealed Chelle has been impressed by the forward’s pressing ability, movement, aggression, work rate, and attacking output this season.
Nigeria will begin their Unity Cup title defence against Zimbabwe national football team, with a potential final against either India national football team or Jamaica national football team awaiting the winners.
Chelle has repeatedly stated that the tournament will serve as a platform to assess fringe players, home-based talents, and emerging prospects as he continues building his preferred squad for upcoming major competitions.