Mikel's Absence Does Not Affect Our Strategy Says Poland Coach; Squad Update

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Friday's pre-World Cup friendly against Nigeria, Poland coach Adam Nawałka has stressed that the absence of Obi Mikel will not make him change his strategy for the game.

The Tianjin Teda midfielder was named on the roster but could not travel to Poland because he is trying to renew his work permit in China.

''Obi Mikel's absence does not affect our strategy. We have a plan for a match with Nigeria and South Korea,'' Nawałka told reporters.

''Nigeria is a great team. They qualified for the World Cup in good style. They conceded only three goals, they have many players playing in strong clubs and it will be a valuable test for us.''

West Brom defensive midfielder Grzegorz Krychowiak, who recently faced Victor Moses in the Premier League, has praised the Nigeria team but believes that the Polish side can be victorious in the tie.

He said : ''They are fast and athletic. We focus on the whole team of Nigeria, this is a very demanding opponent. This is another test before the World Cup. We want to win and prepare ourselves properly.''

Meanwhile, there are few changes to the projected starting lineup to face Nigeria; Łukasz Piszczek won't play tomorrow as his wife is due and he left the camp.

There is also a problem with Rybus who is sick and his spot is expected to be taken by Kurzawa of Górnik Zabrze.

Sampdoria starlet Kownacki will start instead of Grosicki, this particular last-minute change wasn't caused by an injury.

Poland Projected Starting XI Vs Nigeria : Szczęsny - Cionek, Glik, Pazdan - Frankowski, Krychowiak, Linetty, Kurzawa - Zieliński, Kownacki - Lewandowski

Ifeanyi Emmanuel