Eric Chelle made right call as Birmingham coach confirms Osayi-Samuel not yet ready to play

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle appears justified in his decision to drop Bright Osayi-Samuel from Nigeria’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin, following confirmation from Birmingham City manager Chris Davies that the defender was not fit to play.

Osayi-Samuel, who was initially included in the 23-man squad for the crucial qualifiers, was later replaced by Porto fullback Zaidu Sanusi after failing to feature for Birmingham City against Wrexham due to injury.

The decision stirred debate among fans, as the former QPR man remains the only natural right-back option for the Super Eagles in the absence of Ola Aina.

Speaking to Birmingham Mail, Davies clarified the situation, revealing that the Nigerian defender was still recovering from a knock.

“He wasn't really close, he just couldn’t get over that knock that he had," Davies said.

"I don't think we're talking about something that’s going to keep him out for long but he wasn't ready."

With Osayi-Samuel sidelined, Chelle will now rely on alternative defensive options as Nigeria aim to secure maximum points in both fixtures to strengthen their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Adeyemi Adewale

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