Victor Osimhen is expected to arrive Nigeria’s 2021 Africa Cup of Nations camp on January 3, before traveling with the rest of the squad to Garoua, Cameroon few days later for their preparation, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed.
The Eagles who are hoping to land a fourth continental title when the tournament kicks off on January 9, have now been handed a major boost following the availability of Osimhen.
The 23-year-old striker had been a doubt for the biennial competition after sustaining a serious facial injury in Napoli’s defeat to Inter Milan in November, but was named in Nigeria’s 28-man squad on Saturday after declaring himself fit to play for his country.
“We expect Victor [Osimhen] to join up with the rest of the squad at least by 3 of January,” NFF Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire, told BBC Sport Africa.
“It is unnecessary to react to every report in the media about our players availability or potential non-availability for the tournament.
“But the NFF is confident that our players including Osimhen understands the country’s desire for a fourth continental title. It is important to have all our players show same commitment and ambitious traits as displayed by Osimhen,” he added.
The West Africans will begin their quest for a fourth African title against the Pharaohs of Egypt on January 11.
