Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has been handed an injury concern after Paul Onuachu limped off the field of play during the first half of Trabzonspor’s 5-0 victory over Genclerbirligi on Sunday, Footynaija.com reports.
Onuachu had enjoyed a brilliant start to the game, scoring twice inside the opening 22 minutes to put Trabzonspor firmly in control before his enforced substitution just before half-time.
The two goals were particularly significant for the Nigerian striker, as they were his first of the season and brought an end to an eight-game run without a goal in the Turkish Super Lig dating back to last season.
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However, his impressive afternoon unfortunately ended abruptly in the 44th minute after he sustained an injury, with Franculino Dju coming on in his place.
The setback will now be a concern for Chelle, with Nigeria set to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign this month even as the extent of the injury remains unclear, with Trabzonspor yet to provide an official update on the striker’s condition.
That leaves Chelle and the Super Eagles waiting for further news, particularly with the international window approaching and Onuachu having given the Nigeria coach another reminder of what he can offer in front of goal.
The 31-year-old has remained an important option for Nigeria because of his physical presence and ability to provide a different threat in the final third, making his availability something Chelle will be keen to monitor.
For now, the Super Eagles coach will hope Onuachu’s early exit was only a precautionary setback and that the striker can recover in time to play a role in Nigeria’s upcoming AFCON qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
