Samuel Chukwueze ruled out of Nigeria’s Tanzania qualifiers after hip surgery

Nigeria winger Samuel Chukwueze will miss both of the Super Eagles’ AFCON qualifiers against Tanzania after undergoing surgery on a ruptured tendon in his left hip.

The AC Milan forward had the successful procedure in London. Milan said the operation repaired the damaged tendon, with club doctor Stefano Mazzoni present while Professor Ernest Schilders carried out the surgery.

Chukwueze returned to Italy on the same day and has begun his rehabilitation programme. AC Milan have not given a timescale for his return to action.

The 26-year-old suffered the injury during Milan’s 3-2 Serie A victory over Atalanta at San Siro on 18 October. He has since missed the Europa League trip to Bournemouth and league matches against Udinese, Bologna and Inter.

Chukwueze absent for both Tanzania games

Nigeria will host Tanzania in Uyo on Friday 13 November before travelling to Dar es Salaam for the return fixture on Tuesday 17 November. Chukwueze will not be involved in either match.

The Super Eagles are second in Group L, three points behind Guinea-Bissau following their 3-0 defeat in Bissau. Six points from the two matches against Tanzania would keep Nigeria’s hopes of finishing top of the group alive and set up a March decider.

Tanzania’s 24-man squad for the trip has already been announced.

Chukwueze’s absence removes an important attacking option for Nigeria manager Eric Chelle at a crucial stage of qualifying. The winger’s pace and ability to play in wide areas had offered one way of stretching Tanzania in the first match in Uyo.

Chelle will now have to decide whether to replace him with another winger or adjust the shape of his front line. That decision is expected to be among the key points of interest when Nigeria’s squad is confirmed.

The Milan update on Chukwueze’s rehabilitation will also be closely monitored, although the club have yet to indicate when he could return.