Blend of youth and experience: A look at Super Eagles midfield options of 2023 AFCON 

Nigeria manager Jose Peseiro has assembled an intriguing mix of seasoned experienced players and promising youngsters in Nigeria's midfield selection for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations tournament when the 40-man provisional list was released last week.

At the heart of the Super Eagles midfield is the reliable Wilfred Ndidi who provides a sturdy defensive presence with his world-class tackling and distributions skills to break up opposition attacks.

Ndidi's talent and experience will be vital to protect the backline at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations. 

In the central midfield roles, Peseiro can turn to English-based duo Frank Onyeka and Joe Aribo.

Onyeka, coming off a decent season with Brentford, brings energy and two-way play, while Southampton's Aribo offers clever passing range and the occasional goal from deep positions. Both seem poised for big impacts in their early national team careers.

Fulham's Alex Iwobi adds versatility either on the wings or centrally with his dribbling ability and eye for goal.

Despite still being just 27 years old, Iwobi supplies valued experience having featured at the 2018 World Cup and past AFCON tournaments for Nigeria.

There is also abundant youthful potential in Peseiro's midfield squad. The likes of Alhassan Yusuf and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru have shown promising development for Belgian side Antwerp and Turkish club Hatayspor respectively.

Given opportunities, either could inject dynamism into midfield during the Cup of Nations. 

Additionally, Raphael Onyedika and Kelechi Nwakali offer a sense of creativity having been regular starters for Belgian giants Club Brugge and Portuguese second side GD Chaves.

Both midfielders seem primed to try translating club form onto the senior international stage in Nigeria's engine room.

With experienced legs and emerging talent in tow, Peseiro has assembled midfield options capable of anchoring Nigeria's quest to capture their fourth AFCON crown.

Ejim Kaycee

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