As the countdown to January 8 continues, the date Stephen Keshi will make public the list of players for the African Cup of Nations, returning midfielder Fegor Ogude has acknowledged there is healthy competition in the team for midfield spots.

The Vålerenga ace told MTNFootball.com: ''The battle for a shirt in the midfield would be tensed. We have great players who are skilful and can handle the ball very well.

''But I am not afraid because this is my job, it’s what I do every day and as such I am battle ready for the challenge."

It is widely expected that Stephen Keshi will name six central midfielders in his African Cup of Nations roster.

Fegor Ogude, Ogenyi Onazi, Rabiu Ibrahim, Nosa Igiebor, Gabriel Reuben, Henry Uche, Raheem Lawal, Obiora Nwankwo and Mikel Obi are the central midfielders Keshi is expected to pick from.