Why Super Eagles Left Back Echiejile Watched Real Madrid Clash From The Stands

Elderson Echiejile was dropped from Sporting Gijon's 18-man squad for the La Liga tie with Real Madrid at Estadio Municipal El Molinon on Saturday despite initially named to the provisional roster.

Manager Rubi handed a starting shirt to ex-Spain youth-teamer Isma Lopez at left-back, with Roberto Canella named on the substitutes bench, meaning Echiejile was third choice for the visit of the European champions.

Echiejile had to watch the game from the stands because of the defensive errors he made in his last match against Real Sociedad.

His mistake led to the first goal scored by Willian Jose when he headed the ball to Xabi Prieto in the second minute instead of clearing out of danger.

The Nigerian international has started only two games since completing his loan move in the January transfer window, against Real Sociedad and Barcelona.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel