Super Eagles interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen has opened up on the reason behind Victor Osimhen’s absence at the Nations Cup.
The former Lille striker missed out on the squad to the Nations Cup due to Covid-19 and lack of match fitness.
Eguavoen, who replaced Gernot Rohr on an interim basis after the German coach was sacked in December.
“Osimhen, it’s a pity that he will not be at the AFCON. He told me practically and pleaded with me, and I saw reasons.
“I tried for hours to convince him, but his health comes first, which is my concern.”
“When he spoke with me, he was disappointed, and he told me he was not OK. And did not want to go to the AFCON not fully 100 per cent fit.”
“I gave him a few hours and called him back to see whether he will change his mind, and he told me he will be going for evaluation on his face on January 4 and 5 before doctors can make a final decision.”
“With that injury, you have to consider his health. It’s a tough one.”
Victor Osimhen was one of the top performers for the team in the World Cup qualifiers scoring four goals to help the Super Eagles book a play-off place.
Nigeria will start their Nations Cup campaign against Egypt on January 11.
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