Key Super Eagles Defender Ruled Out Of AFCON Opener Vs Burundi With Injury

Published: June 22, 2019

Allnigeriasoccer.com understands that Bursaspor star Abdullahi Shehu has been ruled out Nigeria's opening game against Burundi at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday evening due to injury.

The fullback failed a fitness test leading up to today's game and it is foregone conclusion that he will not be selected to face the Swallows.

Nigeria manager Gernot Rohr hinted at Friday's pre-match press conference that one player will sit out today's game without revealing the identity of the Super Eagle, only stating that the player is sick.

Shehu was one of the first players that fell ill upon the team's arrival in Ismailia for the second phase of preparations.

In truth, the Super Eagles are 'distracted' before their opener against Burundi, with uncertainty surrounding the fitness of Ahmed Musa, Henry Onyekuru, Leon Balogun and Paul Onuachu.

Bordeaux winger Samuel Kalu collapsed in training on Friday and is doubtful to face the Swallows.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel