Super Eagles striker doubtful for AFCON cracker vs Egypt after positive Covid-19 test

Victor Osimhen is now a big doubt to take to the pitch on January 11 when Nigeria face Egypt in their mouthwatering opening clash at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, and this has nothing to do with a club versus country row between  Napoli and the Nigeria Football Federation over his release for the tournament in Cameroon.

The Nigeria international was due to report for international duty in Abuja on January 3 but has tested positive for coronavirus, putting the striker's availability in doubt considering that he has to self-isolate.

Osimhen, who is asymptomatic, will not return to Naples for scheduled medical tests due to his positive Covid-19 test.

"SSC Napoli have announced that Victor Osimhen has tested positive for Covid-19 but is asymptomatic. Dr. Tartaro was due to perform a check-up on the player tomorrow," Napoli said in a press release.

"Consequently, the local authorities have ordered that Osimhen self-isolate and the check-up will be rescheduled after he has tested negative and his period of isolation ends."

Osimhen spent the Christmas holidays in Nigeria, where he also celebrated his 23rd birthday yesterday, December 29.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel