12th November, 2012
Chelsea of England stars, John Mikel Obi and Victor Moses have opted out of this week’s international friendly match between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Venezuela in Miami, Florida, United States of America.
Also, France-based central defender, Onyekachi Apam will not be part of the encounter due to injury.
Eagles Chief Coach, Stephen Keshi on Sunday said the trio had different reasons for opting out of the game, but the trainer assured Nigerians that capable replacements have been named for the encounter.
Mikel, it was gathered has some family matters bothering on his future as a father to settle. “Bright Dike, who plays in the Major League Soccer, MLS, for Timber Wolves FC has already been invited to replace Mikel and we are sure that he will do well in the encounter, as he is based in the United States”, Keshi said.
The coach further hinted that Sharks’ Gomo Onduku, who has been in splendid form in the national camp, has been drafted to replace Moses and will travel with the team to Miami, Florida Sunday night for the encounter against Venezuela.
“I have been there before and we don’t have any grudge against players withdrawing from international friendlies, especially when they are compelled to do so. But we want to be told in good time so that we can make replacements”, Keshi said on Sunday.
He disclosed that all other players invited for the encounter have since confirmed their early arrival.
“The team will jet out of Nigeria tonight aboard Delta Airlines for the game slated for Wednesday night in USA, while the NFF President, Alhaji Aminu Maigari, is expected to lead the delegation to America for the friendly,” Eagles Image Maker, Ben Alaiya said.
The Eagles will use the friendly match to kickstart Nigeria’s preparations for the 2013 African Cup of Nations to be staged in South Africa.