SUPER Eagles interim coach is already making plans for Victor Osimhen replacement in case the Napoli striker is not fully fit before Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Though, Eguavoen wants the 22-year-old to think of healing completely first, he admits a lot depends on Napoli releasing him for the AFCON.

“First of all, we hope that he is well and that he can recover as soon as possible,” the Nigerian coach said. I am sure that Victor has a great desire to play and help his national team, but above all, he must recover his condition as best he can, and then we should understand if Napoli will let him go.”

“Most of the players have known each other for a long time and have been playing together for some time, but I do not rule out that there may be some new faces in the call-ups. If Osimhen is not with us, we have other good players who can replace him.”

Union Berlin’s Taiwo Awoniyi, Watford’s Emmanuel Dennis, and Trabzonspor’s Anthony Nwakaeme are some of the Nigerian stars who failed to enjoy much playing time under sacked Rohr.

Osimhen continues his rehabilitation after undergoing surgery that corrected the multiple fractures he suffered on November 21 during Napoli’s Serie A clash with Inter Milan.

The Napoli ace is back in training with a teammate as he races against time to be fit for Cameroon 2021, where he is expected to be one of the competition’s major stars.

Recent reports indicate that the Nigerian international could be ready for his side’s matchup against Juventus on January 6.

That fixture comes three days before the commencement of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations and five days before the Super Eagles’ first match versus Egypt.

Osimhen could take a late flight into Cameroon after the Juventus game to join the rest of his international teammates.

Source: The Nation