Nigeria: Frank Onyeka returns to action ahead of 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers

Coventry City midfielder Frank Onyeka, who came off injured on Sunday against Brighton, returned to competition three days later against Aston Villa. His return comes just days before the Super Eagles camp for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Frank Onyeka ultimately did not need to spend long on the sidelines. After suffering a hand injury during Coventry City's heavy defeat to Brighton (0-5) on Sunday, the Nigerian international was able to play again as early as Wednesday evening.

Coming on in the 73rd minute against Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup, Onyeka played just over 20 minutes in Coventry's 1-3 defeat. He did not start the match, but his presence on the pitch confirms that he had recovered sufficiently to return to competition.

An alarm quickly dispelled

Against Brighton, Onyeka left the pitch in the 73rd minute, replaced by Caleb Yirenkyi. His hand injury had raised questions about his availability for the upcoming fixtures, particularly with Nigeria.

Three days later, the midfielder provided an initial answer. His appearance against Aston Villa shows that the scare did not result in a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Onyeka moves closer to joining up with Nigeria

This return comes just days before the start of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers for the Super Eagles. Nigeria will host Madagascar on September 25 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, before travelling to Guinea-Bissau four days later.

Onyeka's return therefore gives Éric Chelle an additional option in midfield. The Coventry player must now continue building up his match fitness at club level before joining the national team.

After his worrying departure against Brighton, he returned to the pitch in the very next match. For Nigeria, that is one less uncertainty ahead of these opening two qualifying matches.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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