The Super Eagles have received a major boost ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifiers, with Ademola Lookman nearing a return from injury.
Lookman sustained an injury during Atalanta’s Serie A clash against Napoli in January and aggravated it during training before their Champions League tie against Barcelona.
This forced him to miss several key fixtures, including matches against Barcelona, Torino, Bologna, and Verona. Despite returning to light training, Atalanta has yet to confirm his exact comeback date.
With Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying hopes on the line, Chelle is eager to have Lookman available for the crucial fixtures against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March.
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According to Guardian Nigeria, the coach is closely monitoring the forward’s recovery and is optimistic about his return.
Lookman has been a key player for the Super Eagles, scoring eight goals and providing four assists in 27 appearances. His performance at AFCON 2023, where he scored three goals and registered an assist, was instrumental in Nigeria’s run to the final.
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Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini recently addressed Lookman’s availability for their Champions League playoff against Club Brugge, admitting uncertainty about his return.
“Lookman had a rather annoying bruise that he’s been carrying since the Napoli game. We’ll see in the next few days if he’ll be available for Wednesday,” Gasperini told Tutto Atalanta.
After a shaky start to their World Cup qualifying campaign, the Super Eagles are in dire need of Lookman’s attacking presence. With camp opening in March, his return would be a massive boost for the team.
Source: The Athletic NG
