Nigerians have expressed confidence in Antwerp midfielder Alhassan Yusuf, who has been handed a late call-up to interchange injured Wilfred Ndidi within the Tremendous Eagles camp in Abu Dhabi forward of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, PUNCH Sports activities Further studies.
The biennial Nations Cup will maintain from January 13 to February 11.
Yusuf was initially named in coach Jose Peseiro’s preliminary 41-man listing however was dropped from the ultimate 25-man squad which was launched final Friday, because the Portuguese coach caught with the midfield lineup of Ndidi Raphael Onyedika Joe Aribo Frank Onyeka and Alex Iwobi.
After speculations, the Nigeria Soccer Federation on Wednesday confirmed that the Kano-born midfielder will substitute Ndidi whereas Kelechi Iheanacho, who can also be injured continues to be hopeful of becoming a member of the staff earlier than the AFCON commences.
Yusuf has been an everyday for Antwerp within the Belgium Professional League and the Champions League this season, making 15 league appearances and offering two assists simply as he featured in all their six Champions League group stage video games, scoring one purpose and offering one help as properly.
Some followers who’ve watched him this season hailed his inclusion.
“An excellent alternative. I watched his Champions League debut and the dude appeared composed and imposing in the midst of the park,” Eminghotei Buna stated.
One other fan Tijjani Zayyad additionally stated he needs to be given sufficient sport time on the event. “Good alternative, Onyedikachi and Alhassan needs to be given an honest run, figuring out Pesiero I do know he’s more likely to experiment with Iwobi/Onyeka as an alternative which received’t work.”
Some others additionally stated he deserved a spot within the preliminary squad.
“Why substitute Ndidi when there’s nonetheless house for 2 extra gamers. Simply add Alhassan Yusuf, easy. On matchdays Ndidi is not going to be listed. You guys wish to deny Ndidi an AFCON medal once we win it,” a fan recognized as Frank wrote.
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