Nigeria’s preparation for Friday’s Russia 2018 World Cup qualifier against Cameroon is expected to reach top gear on Tuesday after the arrival of key members of the team to the Southern city of Uyo, venue of Friday’s game.
Sixteen of the 24 invited players flew in from Abuja alongside the team’s coaches to intensify preparations for the game.
Changchun Yatai of China striker Odion Ighalo had arrived the team’s Abuja camp last Friday before he was joined by other Europe-based stars over the weekend.
As disclosed by the team handler Gernot Rohr penultimate weekend in Kano, captain John Mikel Obi arrived in time for Monday’s trip to Uyo alongside the team’s vice captains Ogenyi Onazi and Ahmed Musa.
Hull City’s Ola Aina who was accompanied by his dad was also among the 13 players that made the short trip.
Three more players; William Troost-Ekong and Leicester City duo of Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfired Ndidi joined the team in Uyo on Monday evening.
The remaining 8 players are expected to join up with the team on Tuesday before their first training session at the practice pitch of the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo.
Roll call as at Monday evening:
Goalkeepers: Ikechukwu Ezenwa, Dele Alampasu, Daniel Akpeyi
Defenders: Ola Aina, Tyronne Ebuehi, Elderson Echiejile, William Troost-Ekong, Chidozie Awaziem.
Midfielders: John Mikel Obi, Ogenyi Onazi, Mikel Agu, Oghenekaro Etebo, Wilfred Ndidi.
Attackers: Kelechi Iheanacho, Odion Ighalo, Ahmed Musa
Still being expected:
Defenders: Shehu Abdullahi, Leon Balogun
Midfielders: Uche Agbo, John Ogu
Attackers: Aaron Samuel, Moses Simon, Anthony Nwakaeme
