Eric Chelle provides Osayi-Samuel injury update, why Yusuf played at RB, NPFL players in Super Eagles

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has shared insights into the injury status of Bright Osayi-Samuel ahead of Nigeria’s World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe in Uyo.

Osayi-Samuel suffered a possible muscle injury during the second half of Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali.

The Fenerbahce fullback was eventually substituted, with Alhassan Yusuf coming on to help see out the game.

Speaking at his post-match press conference, Chelle assured fans that all players are fit and available for selection against Zimbabwe.

"All the players are ready to play so no problem," he stated confidently.

Chelle also addressed his tactical decision to deploy Alhassan Yusuf at right-back instead of utilizing a natural defender.

"We work it out on training session. On my analysis, I think it was the better choice. So I don't make choice with luck. We work on the training session, we have two teams and after that I make better choice. I saw that from the training."

On the involvement of NPFL players in the national team, the Malian tactician encouraged them to develop their skills and adapt to his philosophy.

"My job is to see all the Nigerian players in the world. I need to analyze every player because this is the World Cup qualifiers, then the CHAN, and AFCON.

"So you need to work together. I think there are lots of players who can play in the national team. They need to work and know how I want my team to play. This is how I pick players."

Nigeria will take on Zimbabwe in Uyo on Tuesday, aiming to continue their resurgence and strengthen their bid for World Cup qualification.

Adeyemi Adewale

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