Samuel Chukwueze to miss Nigeria’s AFCON qualifiers after hip surgery

Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze will miss Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania this month after undergoing successful surgery in London.

The AC Milan player had an operation to repair a ruptured tendon in the tensor fasciae latae muscle in his left hip, the club confirmed.

Chukwueze is expected to return to Italy today, where he will begin his rehabilitation programme. The procedure was carried out by Professor Ernest Schilders, with AC Milan medical team member Dr Stefano Mazzoni also present.

The injury is a setback for Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle as he prepares his squad for the important fixtures against Tanzania.

Chukwueze sustained the problem in October after making a strong start to the campaign under former Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim.

The former Villarreal winger had been used in a wing-back role and adapted quickly to the position. He made eight appearances in all competitions for the Rossoneri, providing two assists.

He has been absent for AC Milan’s past four matches against Udinese, Inter Milan, Bologna and Bournemouth.

The club’s statement confirmed that the surgery was successful, but Chukwueze’s absence leaves him unavailable for Nigeria’s forthcoming AFCON qualifying fixtures.