After failed summer move, Nwakali drafted into Barnsley U21s to stay match fit

The future of Nigeria international Kelechi Nwakali was not resolved before the close of the summer transfer window, allnigeriasoccer.com reports. 

Nwakali had been pushing for a loan move during the window, with reports linking him to interest from other English clubs, but no deal materialised. 

As a result, the 27-year-old has yet to feature in any of the Reds' nine fixtures this season, missing seven League One matches and two Carabao Cup ties.

To maintain his sharpness and fitness levels, Nwakali has been drafted into Barnsley’s Under-21 side while awaiting another opportunity to reignite his first-team career. 

He started in their 3-0 defeat to Watford in a Professional Development League fixture on Tuesday, September 16.

Whether manager Conor Hourihane will include him in the travelling squad to face Blackpool on Saturday, September 20, remains to be seen.

Despite his absence from senior matchday squads, Nwakali officially remains part of the first team, having been pictured in Barnsley's squad photo released earlier this week.

The Super Eagles midfielder joined Barnsley last summer on a three-year contract after spells in the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain. 

He featured in 26 matches in his debut campaign at Oakwell, making 15 starts and registering one goal and one assist.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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