Balogun, Onuachu to return as Chelle prepares list for Rwanda, Zimbabwe ties

By Olaolu Joseph

Super Eagles head coach Eric Sekou Chelle has submitted the list of players to be invited by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for the upcoming crucial World Cup Qualifiers.

Nigeria will be hoping to get their World Cup qualifying campaign back on track when they take on Rwanda away and host Zimbabwe in March.

Currently placed fifth in their six-team group, four points behind leaders Rwanda, the Eagles will aim to pick up their first win after going winless in their first four games with three draws and one loss.

Chelle, appointed as coach last month, will handle the team for the first time during these crucial games. He has drawn up a list of players from which he will select his final 25-man squad and starting lineup for both matches.

Sources indicate that Getafe forward Uche Chrisantus will be handed a maiden call-up alongside Enyimba goalkeeper Henry Ozoemena Ani. Both are expected to be included in the squad, along with four others returning to the team.

Topping the list are Paul Onuachu and his Southampton teammate Joe Aribo. Former Southampton winger Nathan Tella is also back in the setup after a turnaround in his form and playing time at Bayer Leverkusen.

Leon Balogun is also in contention for a return due to limited options in his position and his regular appearances for Scottish side Rangers.