18 Foreign-Based Players Cleared To Represent Nigeria In Rio - Complete Sports

Nigeria U23s coach Samson Siasia has revealed that at least 18 foreign-based professionals have been cleared by their clubs to defend the colours of the country at the 2016 Olympic Games.

English-based pair Odion Ighalo (Watford) and Obi Mikel (Chelsea) have not yet been permitted by their respective clubs to represent Nigeria in the competition in Brazil but Siasia is hopeful that they will be released nonetheless.

As previously reported by this website, Alex Iwobi is doubtful for the Games, with the Nigerian Federation still locked in talks with Arsenal over his release, while City striker Kelechi Iheanacho has decided to take part in pre-season training and will not join the Nigeria U23s squad in Atlanta, USA.

Home-based players Stanley Dimgba, Erhun Obanor, Emmanuel Daniel, Yusuf Mohammed and Julius Emiloju will be allowed by their local clubs to represent the country if they are named to the 18-man roster.

Cleared To Play At Games : Daniel Akpeyi, Aminu Umar, Godwin Saviour, Shehu Abdullahi, Mikel Agu, Stanley Amuzie, Kenneth Omeruo, Moses Simon, Ezekiel Imoh, Wilfred Ndidi, Dele Alampasu, Musa Mohammed and Junior Ajayi.

Taiwo Awoniyi, Kingsly Madu, skipper Azubuike Okey, Oghenekaro Etebor, Troost Ekong

Home-based Players : Stanley Dimgba, Erhun Obanor, Emmanuel Daniel, Yusuf Mohammed and Julius Emiloju.

Igho Kingsley