Ahead of the start of the Portuguese championship, Obiora Nwankwo has shrugged off injury concerns and is in line to make his official debut for Academica when they tackle Sporting Lisbon on Saturday at City of Coimbra Stadium.

The Nigeria international had been struggling with a groin complaint, but he is now fully fit, having trained with the squad on Wednesday without any limitation.

Nwankwo penned a two - year deal with the Students last month, which ended his brief collaboration with Córdoba CF, whom he joined from CFR Cluj, Romania.

Academica manager, Paulo Sergio, will nominate the players expected to take to the field against Sporting Lisbon after morning practice on Friday.

What is certain is that Super Eagles midfielder John Ogu will not make the provisional roster as he is still negotiating his exit from Academica, with only 18 days left before the end of the transfer market.