Super Eagles’ first choice goalkeeper in recent times, Carl Ikeme, has been ruled out of Tuesday’s 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against the Pharaohs of Egypt, Premium Times has reported.
Reports from the Eagles’ camp suggest that Ikeme has been feeling unwell since after manning the post for Nigeria in Friday’s disappointing 1-1 draw against the Egyptians at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium.
It is in that light that coaches have decided not to risk him in goal on Tuesday during the all -important encounter against the Pharaohs and will thus not be available for selection on Tuesday.
Super Eagles team doctor, Ibrahim Gyaran, told thenff.com that the goalkeeper has stomach upset which has kept him out of training since Friday’s game in Kaduna.
“After the game last Friday, Carl has been struggling with some stomach upset and it has not allowed him train with the rest of the squad,” Gyaran disclosed.
“He is stable but needs a lot of rest to be back in 100% shape for the kind of high profile game that we have on Tuesday. Considering the amount of travel involved as well, it is best we give him a break,” he added.
Ikeme literally stepped into the big shoes of Vincent Enyeama who under controversial circumstances walked away from the national team during the early reign of erstwhile handler, Sunday Oliseh.
The Wolverhampton of England shot-stopper has not done badly in the Nigeria national team colours and it is now yet to be seen who among the other two goalkeepers in camp will be called up to replace him in Tuesday’s game.
Daniel Akpeyi who stars for South African club, Chippa United, and Ikechukwu Ezenwa of Nigeria League side, Sunshine Stars, are the other two keepers waiting in the wings to take Ikeme’s position in-between the Nigeria goalpost.
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