Super Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka has handed Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle a fresh injury concern ahead of the team’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Onyeka was forced off in the 73rd minute during Coventry City’s heavy 5-0 defeat to Brighton in the Premier League, raising fears over his availability for the Super Eagles’ next international assignment.
The Nigerian midfielder was replaced by Ghanaian youngster Caleb Yirenkyi after he was unable to continue. There was no immediate confirmation from Coventry regarding the nature or severity of the injury after the match.
The timing of the injury could be particularly frustrating for Chelle, with Nigeria preparing for important AFCON qualifying fixtures.
Onyeka has become one of the Super Eagles’ trusted midfield options because of his energy, defensive work and ability to provide balance in the middle of the pitch.
His potential absence would leave Chelle with another selection issue as he prepares his squad for the September fixtures.
Nigeria are scheduled to face Madagascar on September 26 before taking on Guinea-Bissau three days later on September 29. The Super Eagles will also face Russia in a friendly on October 6.
Onyeka’s injury comes at a time when Nigeria already have fitness concerns around the midfield.
Tochukwu Nnadi has also been dealing with a knee injury after suffering the problem during Marseille’s defeat to Monaco earlier this month.
Christantus Uche is another Nigerian midfielder unavailable after undergoing successful knee surgery following a serious injury suffered during Getafe’s pre-season campaign. Reports indicate that he is expected to miss the 2026/27 season.
The growing injury list could force Chelle to consider alternative midfield combinations before Nigeria’s AFCON qualifiers.
For now, however, Onyeka’s situation remains unclear. Further medical assessment will determine whether the 27-year-old can recover in time for Nigeria’s upcoming matches.
