As many as 14 players have been sent packing from the camp of the Nigeria U20 team in Abuja ahead of the U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, Owngoalnigeria.com understands.
Ladan Bosso trimmed the players to a sizeable number after almost two weeks of training as he steps up preparation for the tournament with a test game against Galadima FC later today at the FIFA Goal Project.
In defence, the coach stuck with his favorite five during the first phase of camping in Dominion Ohaka, Daniel Bamaiyi, Benjamin Franklin, Augustine Njoku and Solomon Agbalaka. Two foreign based defenders in Abel Ogwuche of Swedish side Trelleborgs and Michael Ologo of Turkish side Istanbulspor are expected this week .
Simoiben Football Academy prospect Nicholas Jonathan has forced his way into the team but now faces a huge battle to get into the final squad with the likes of Daniel Daga, Aminu Mohammed, Hamzat Basit, Onuche Ogbelu, Samson Lawal also pushing.
In goal, they now have just three goalkeepers picked by the goalkeeper’s coach Olatunji Baruwa. They are the trio of Nathaniel Nwosu, Chijioke Aniagboso and Jimoh Saheed. Norwich City goalkeeper David Aziaya was axed after yesterday’s session.
His spot will be taken up by teen Arsenal shot stopper Ovie Ejeheri who is expected in camp later this week. Joel Ideho is teammate at Arsenal is also set to make a decision on the call up with the Netherlands pushing him to snub the invitation.
