7th October, 2014
The Super Eagles will commence training in Abuja on Tuesday as no fewer than 10 players arrived at the team’s camp on Monday in preparation for the Africa Cup of Nation (AFCON) 2015 qualifier against Sudan.
Nigeria will play Sudan in Omdurman on 11 October before a return-leg on 15 October in AFCON 2015 qualifier after a 2-3 loss to Congo in Calabar and a goalless draw in South Africa.
A statement issued in Abuja by Ben Alaiya, the Super Eagles Media Officer, said the players were expected to begin training, while others would join before dinner on Tuesday.
It listed Omatsone Aluko of Hull City, Hope Akpan and Babatunde Michael, who shone at the Brazil 2014 World Cup, as the early arrivals.
Noskhare Igiebor, a midfield gem, who recently transferred to Israel, Aaron Samuel, Gbolahan Salami of Warri Wolves FC and his team captain Azubuike Egwuekwe, are among the first 10 players to arrive.
Emem Edward, goalkeeper Chigozie Agbim and leading Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) scorer, Ighodalo Osagunna complete the number in camp.
“As at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, at least 10 players have arrived the team’s camp with training expected to commence on Tuesday morning at the training pitch of the Abuja National Stadium.
“All other players invited for the game are expected on Tuesday before dinner time,” the statement read.
It quoted Super Eagles Head Coach, Stephen Keshi, as saying that he was impressed by the response of the players, as there was a need for cohesion before the crucial match.
“The response so far has been wonderful and I am in touch with those who are yet to arrive and they will surely be here on time for proper preparation against Sudan,” the statement quoted Keshi as saying.