NFF finally explains why Mikel Obi will not face Libya in tough 2019 AFCON qualifiers
- Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi is recuperating from injury
- This is according to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF)
- He will miss the double 2019 AFCON qualifiers against Libya
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) have explained the rationale behind the exclusion of John Obi Mikel from the Super Eagles' squad that will face Libya this month in AFCON qualifiers.
Super Eagles gaffer Gernot Rohr made the list available on Monday in which Mikel Obi's name was not included and many Nigerians have been reacting.
Mikel has not played for Nigeria since the end of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia where Eagles were bundled out of the competition after losing their last Group game against Argentina.
"Obi Mikel has been excused because he is just recovering from injury in China and needs time to fully regain fitness.
"We expect him to be available for the November game against South Africa,'' Super Eagles spokesman Toyin Ibitoye told BBC.
Meanwhile, Libya are currently topping Group E in 2019 AFCON qualifiers with four points followed by South Africa on the same point. Nigeria are third on the log with three points.
Nigeria lost their first game at home against South Africa, but they redeemed themselves in their second game against Seychelles getting the three points.
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Earlier, NAIJ.com had reported how Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr released the names of his players who will face Libya this month in the 2019 African Cup of Nations qualifying games.
Captain of the team Mikel Obi is not among these 24 Super Eagles players to face Libya and Ahmed Musa is expected to lead the attack for Gernot Rohr.
Enyimba goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa is the only home based player who made the list and he will be a backup for current number one Francis Uzoho.
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Source: Naija.ng