Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has returned to full training with Udinese after recovering from a shoulder injury in a major boost for both the Italian club and Nigeria ahead of next month’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Footynaija.com reports.
Okoye had been restricted to individual sessions in recent weeks after sustaining the injury, forcing him to miss all five of Udinese’s pre-season friendlies and raising doubts over his availability for the start of the new campaign.
However, those concerns have now eased after Okoye rejoined his teammates in full training as he closes in on a competitive return.
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According to Italian outlet Il Gazzettino, via Mondo Udinese, the former Watford goalkeeper has resumed normal training, although Udinese’s medical staff are expected to manage his workload carefully to avoid any setbacks.
The Bianconeri are hopeful Okoye will be fit enough to feature in either their Coppa Italia clash against Padova or the opening Serie A fixture against Como.
His recovery also comes as welcome news for Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, who is preparing his squad for crucial AFCON qualifying fixtures against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau next month.
Okoye impressed during Nigeria’s recent international friendlies against Poland and Portugal, producing a pair of impressive displays that strengthened his case to remain one of Chelle’s trusted options between the sticks.
The Nigerian shot-stopper enjoyed an impressive 25/26 campaign with Udinese, making 30 Serie A appearances and keeping 10 clean sheets as the club secured a top-half finish.
After overcoming this latest setback, Okoye will be hoping to regain full match fitness in time for the new season and carry that momentum into the start of Nigeria’s AFCON qualification campaign.
