Stoke City Boss Set To Include Etebo In Match Day Squad Vs Middlesbrough

Allnigeriasoccer.com understands that Oghenekaro Etebo has been given a clean bill of health by Stoke City medics to return to action in Saturday evening's clash against Middlesbrough at Bet365 Stadium.

Barring a last-minute change of mind by manager Gary Rowett, the Nigeria international will be named in the 18-man squad against Boro.

And it would be his first game in England since he went the distance against Norwich City (October 6), if he is handed playing time.

Super Eagles manager Gernot Rohr will be monitoring with keen interest the physical condition of Etebo as the number eight is expected to be named in the starting line-up vs South Africa in two weeks time, with Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi suspended for the trip to Johannesburg.

The former Warri Wolves star had picked up a hamstring problem in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya last month, which kept him out of the Potters squad for three successive games.

Stoke City earned four points from the three matches Etebo was not available for selection.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel