Super Eagles centre-back Awaziem to undergo late fitness test before Nantes v Metz

Super Eagles defender Chidozie Awaziem is in a race against time to be fit for FC Nantes' Ligue 1 encounter with FC Metz this Sunday at the Stade de la Beaujoire.

The centre-back sustained an injury during Nantes' recent match against AS Monaco, which forced him off before the final whistle. 

It marked the first time this season that Awaziem has failed to complete a match for the Canaries since his summer switch from FC Cincinnati.

Awaziem's condition will be reassessed on the eve of the game, with a late fitness test set to determine whether he will be available for selection.

Nantes coach Luis Castro has confirmed that the Nigeria international is struggling with muscle fatigue, leaving his participation in doubt for the matchday 11 fixture against relegation rivals Metz.

"There's another one we'll see tomorrow. It's Chidozie Awaziem. We'll see about him, but it's muscle fatigue,” Castro revealed during his pre-match press conference.

Awaziem's potential absence would be a significant setback for Nantes, who are already contending with several injury problems. 

The 28-year-old has been an ever-present figure this campaign, offering stability, composure, and leadership at the heart of the defence.

Although Awaziem was included in the Super Eagles squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa in September, he has not featured for the national team since March 26, 2024 when he started in a friendly match against Mali.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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