Gift Orban to undergo late fitness test to determine whether he can become cap-tied to Nigeria

Allnigeriasoccer.com understands that free-scoring KAA Gent attacker Gift Orban has emerged as an injury worry for the Super Eagles ahead of Sunday's dead rubber 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against São Tomé and Príncipe at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

The dual national player, who is also eligible to represent Togo through his mother, will undergo a late fitness test to determine whether he can become cap-tied to the three-time African champions tomorrow.

Orban is one of the most exciting young strikers in Europe at the moment, scoring 26 goals in 31 appearances since his move to Gent in the January transfer window. 

The 21-year-old did not train fully with the rest of the Super Eagles squad in their final workout on Saturday, putting his participation for the matchday six AFCON qualifier in doubt. 

Orban is experiencing a minor discomfort in the leg and will be assessed on Sunday morning to determine his availability for the match. 

Providing a squad update at the pre-match press conference, Nigeria manager Jose Peseiro told reporters: "Orban complained but I don't know if it's serious or not. We will check today in the training."

If Orban is not passed fit, the Portuguese football tactician is still spoilt for choice in the forward line as he can call upon the services of Victor Osimhen, Kelechi Iheanacho, Victor Boniface and Taiwo Awoniyi.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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