Lookman injury doubt for Nigeria’s Tanzania return as Chelle updates squad

Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle says Ademola Lookman is a doubt for the Super Eagles’ return fixture against Tanzania after suffering a knee problem in Friday’s 3-1 win.

Lookman started alongside Akor Adams in attack in the first leg at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, but was forced off towards the end of the first half.

The Atletico Madrid forward went down without any contact, leading Chelle to send on Paris FC winger Moses Simon as his replacement.

Chelle said after the match that the former Atalanta forward had sustained a knock to his knee, with his availability for the second meeting with the Taifa Stars still uncertain.

“Ademola, his knee he has a little problem. He took a shock and we don’t know if it was a shock,” said Chelle.

The Nigeria head coach explained that Lookman first felt discomfort while attempting to shoot with his left foot before taking another knock to the same area.

“When he tried to score the goal with his left foot, his knee started to feel bad. After that he took a knock on his knee. This is why he went off the pitch,” he added.

Chelle also provided a positive update on Calvin Bassey and Benjamin Fredrick, confirming that both defenders are in good physical condition after recovering from cramps suffered during the match.

The Super Eagles will now wait for further news on Lookman’s knee before the return fixture against Tanzania, with Chelle hoping the forward will recover in time to play.