Super Eagles Coach, Jose Peseiro, confirmed in a late Monday interview in Abu Dhabi that striker Kelechi Iheanacho is now fully fit and ready to join the team for the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire.
Peseiro assured reporters, stating, “Kelechi Iheanacho will be with us in Cote d’Ivoire. He has finished his treatment at Leicester City.” The coach’s announcement puts an end to concerns about Iheanacho’s availability for the AFCON campaign.
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Iheanacho, who plays for Leicester City, had been recovering from a muscular injury, which led to his absence from the Super Eagles’ week-long training camp in Abu Dhabi. Peseiro explained that the striker stayed back at his club to undergo treatment and regain full fitness ahead of the prestigious tournament.
The confirmation of Iheanacho’s return bolsters the Super Eagles’ attacking options as they prepare to compete in the 34th AFCON finals, seeking to add to their three-time champion status.
The month-long tournament is set to commence on February 11, with Nigeria’s national team scheduled to kick off their campaign against Equatorial Guinea at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan.
The Super Eagles are expected to depart for Cote d’Ivoire on Wednesday, following a special dinner hosted by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in Lagos on Tuesday.
Peseiro’s assurance regarding Iheanacho’s fitness adds a positive dimension to Nigeria’s preparations for the AFCON, instilling confidence in the team’s prospects as they aim for success in the continental competition.
