Nigeria have been handed a potential injury boost ahead of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with Fisayo Dele-Bashiru closing in on a return to training at Lazio, Footynaija.com reports.
The Super Eagles midfielder has been sidelined since suffering a muscular problem during Lazio’s Serie A opener against Bologna last month with the injury initially raising concerns over his availability for Nigeria’s opening AFCON qualifiers this month.
However, Dele-Bashiru could take a significant step towards returning to action as early as Thursday or Friday, with reports from Italy indicating that he could rejoin Lazio training within the next 24 to 48 hours.
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If he makes sufficient progress, the Nigerian could even be included in Lazio’s squad for Saturday’s Serie A clash against AC Milan, although he is only expected to be considered for a place on the bench.
A return against Milan would represent an encouraging development, but Lazio are unlikely to take unnecessary risks with the midfielder after his recent setback.
Should he miss the meeting with Milan, Dele-Bashiru would still have more time to complete his recovery, build up his fitness and potentially feature in Lazio’s subsequent Serie A fixtures before the Super Eagles assemble later this month.
The midfielder remains an important option for Chelle, having impressed with his versatility in midfield. He can operate as a No. 10 or in a deeper role and has already featured prominently under the Super Eagles boss.
Dele-Bashiru also enjoyed a positive start to the new season before his injury, scoring in Lazio’s 6-0 pre-season victory over Flaminia before featuring against Mantova in the Coppa Italia.
With Nigeria set to face Madagascar before taking on Guinea-Bissau in the opening AFCON qualifiers, his priority will now be to regain full fitness and make himself available for Chelle and the three-time African champions.
Even a place on Lazio’s bench against Milan would provide a welcome indication that Dele-Bashiru is moving closer to a return and potentially give Chelle another reason for optimism ahead of Nigeria’s crucial September fixtures.
