31st December, 2012
Nigeria’s Russia-based stars, Emmanuel Emenike and Ahmed Musa, as well as Lazio of Italy upcoming midfield player, Ogenyi Onazi have arrived at the Super Eagles’ Faro camp in Portugal, as preparations gather steam for the 2013 African Cup of Nations.
The players, according to Coach Stephen Keshi, arrived in good time for Wednesday’s international friendly match against the star-studded Catalonia in Spain.
“The trio breezed into camp at lunch time on Sunday, and were immediately checked into their rooms, with Onazi, explaining that they could have arrived earlier but spent time waiting for Emenike’s luggage, which did not arrive with the plane from Lisbon to Faro,” Eagles’ Media Officer, Ben Alaiya said on Sunday.
It was gathered that Raheem Lawal, who plays in the Turkish second division also arrived today and had lunch with the other players in camp.
“As at Sunday evening, nine foreign-based players have arrived at the Faro camp in Portugal, but Coach Stephen Keshi said he expects at least 11 foreign-based players to feature in the friendly against Catalonia on Wednesday,” Alaiya said.
Keshi said apart from Ikechukwu Uche, who has been given till 6 January to arrive the team’s camp, other players are expected in Portugal latest by 5 January.
“We have no discussion to allow some players stay with their clubs beyond 5 January, and the rules are very clear. If any player fails to make the date and without permission, we will apply the rules and take the matter up with the appropriate authorities,” Keshi said on Sunday.