Victor Osimhen: Wilfred Ndidi Speaks on Napoli Striker’s Absence From Nigeria’s Squad for Bafana Tie

• Wilfred Ndidi has opened up on Victor Osimhen's absence from the Super Eagles squad ahead of World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin
• The Nigerian striker was ruled out of the qualifiers due to an injury he picked up in Napoli's final game of the season against Lecce in the Italian Serie A
• Finidi George opted for Enugu Rangers defender Kenneth Igboke as the replacement for the Napoli forward in the Super Eagles squad for the qualifiers

Super Eagles midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, has commented on Victor Osimhen's absence from Nigeria's squad for their World Cup qualifying games against South Africa and the Benin Republic.

Osimhen was named in the 23-man squad list for both games but withdrew from the team after picking up an injury in Napoli's final match of the season in the Italian Serie A.

World Cup Qualifiers: Fresh Injury Hits Super Eagles Camp Ahead of South Africa, Benin Clashes

Football

Finidi George decided to replace the former Lille striker with Enugu Rangers star Kenneth Igboke.

According to Soccernet, in an interview ahead of the qualifiers, Ndidi admitted that the Super Eagles squad will miss Osimhen, but the team has others who can deputise in his absence.

"[Victor] Osimhen is a great player, he's a hustler," he said

"I call him a hustler because he plays like a street footballer with strength and a strong mentality. There is no doubt that we are going to miss him. He is crucial to the team because he drives the team forward and has a significant influence.

"However, we have many great strikers who can bring their dynamics into the team and make an impact."

Nigeria will host Bafana Bafana at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Friday, June 7, and face the Cheetahs three days later in Ivory Coast.

Cavin Johnson: South African Coach Gives Injury Update Ahead of Kaizer Chiefs Tie With Polokwane City

Football

Finidi makes changes to Nigeria’s squad

Sports Brief earlier reported that Coach Finidi has made changes to Nigeria's squad for the FIFA World Cup qualification games.

The 53-year-old had to make adjustments following Nathan Tella's withdrawal from the team. The former Enyimba FC manager called up another NPFL star to replace the Bayer Leverkusen star.