Russia 2018: Leon Balogun Singles Out The Most Important Factor That Will Make Eagles Succeed

The Super Eagles have been hit by an injury crisis seven days before manager Gernot Rohr must announce a 35-man provisional roster for the 2018 World Cup, and Mainz 05 star Leon Balogun has stated that the team will only do well in Russia if the players are in tip-top condition.

Balogun, himself, is still undergoing rehabilitation following a rib injury and the likes of Henry Onyekuru, Tyronne Ebuehi, Joel Obi and Wilfred Ndidi have been absent for their respective clubs with varying ailments.

Apart from the German-born center back, the explanation for these injuries is as a result of the Super Eagles stars playing too many games for their clubs, for example, Onyekuru had played 28 games for Anderlecht as at December 2017 before his spell on the sidelines.

''We have a team capable of doing well in Russia and this team can perform to expectations if we have everyone in great shape," Leon Balogun told BBC Sport.

"As a professional you don't think so much about getting injured or avoiding it, you just give everything on the pitch for club and country.

"I know injuries come with football and if we are very lucky not have it, then all the players in Nigerian colours have the spirit to fight for success until the end."

Balogun was unlucky not to be named in Nigeria's squad list for the 2014 World Cup after sustaining an injury on his debut against Mexico, but believes he will travel to Russia despite his persistent injury problems.

Igho Kingsley