Joel Obi’s Full Return to Torino Training Boosts Super Eagles’ Prospects for Friendlies

Torino midfielder Joel Obi has delivered a significant lift to Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr’s preparations for the upcoming friendly matches against Poland and Serbia. The Serie A player rejoined training with Torino, dispelling earlier concerns about a suspected injury that prompted his absence in the club’s recent game against AS Roma.

Obi’s resurgence in training positions him as a potential asset for Torino’s upcoming league clash against Fiorentina on Sunday and augurs well for his prospects in the Super Eagles’ World Cup warm-up matches. Nigeria is scheduled to play against Poland on Friday, followed by a match against Serbia four days later.

Despite initial doubts about his fitness, the official website of Torino reported that Obi not only participated in the training session but completed it, hinting at his possible inclusion in the matchday squad for the Fiorentina encounter.

In a statement, Torino confirmed, “Bonifazi and Joel Obi returned to the group and played the entire session with the teammates.”

Joel Obi’s return to the national team is noteworthy, marking his first invitation in two years since missing out on the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. His contributions to Torino this season have been commendable, boasting four goals and two assists in 18 Serie A appearances.

As the Super Eagles gear up for crucial friendly fixtures, Obi’s resurgence is a positive development, providing added depth and experience to the squad as they fine-tune their strategies ahead of the World Cup.