Eric Chelle gets Alex Iwobi update as Poland, Portugal friendlies beckon

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​Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has provided an update on his recovery after missing Fulham’s last three Premier League fixtures, Afrik-Foot reports.

​Iwobi was forced off the pitch just before halftime during Fulham’s 1-0 loss to Brentford at the Community Stadium on April 18.

The premature exit sparked concerns that the playmaker might be sidelined for the remainder of the season.

Alex Iwobi of Fulham during the Nottingham Forest v Fulham Premier League match at the City Ground
Alex Iwobi of Fulham. Copyright: xIMAGO/EveryxSecondxMedia

​However, when initially asked about the injury, coach Marco Silva remained optimistic, admitting he did not expect the Nigerian international to be out for an extended period.

​In his absence, Fulham have struggled, losing two of the three matches he missed against Aston Villa, Bournemouth, and Arsenal.

​On Sunday night, Iwobi shared a recovery update via his personal blog. He provided a glimpse into his rehabilitation routines while expressing the mental frustration of being away from the pitch.

Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi of Fulham goal celebrations during the Premier League match between Fulham and Chelsea.
Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi of Fulham. Copyright: ImagoxPedroxSoaresx/

​”I’m able to walk, though I’ve got a limp, so that’s a positive,” Iwobi said.

“I’m just grateful that I don’t really get injured on a regular basis because it is mentally challenging.”

​“Even now, I’m just fuming. I can’t be active; I can’t move freely. But that’s life; it is part of the game,” he concluded.

Will Alex Iwobi be fit for the Super Eagles?

​Alex Iwobi’s injury is a significant talking point for Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle. However, the midfielder’s recent comments and footage suggest he is nearing a return to full fitness.

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi
Alex Iwobi during the game against Morocco Copyright: xSulaimanxPoojaxAdebayoxImago

​Iwobi remains one of Chelle’s most trusted lieutenants due to his ability to dictate play from deep. The 30-year-old’s quality was on full display during the last Africa Cup of Nations, and Nigerian fans are eager to see him maintain that level of influence.

​Nigeria is set to face Poland and Portugal in two high-profile friendlies in early June, and Chelle will be desperate to have his strongest squad available for those fixtures.

​With two games remaining in the Premier League season over the next fortnight, there is a strong possibility that Iwobi could return to action for Fulham before the domestic campaign concludes.

<!-- Author Start -->Kelvin Omachonu<!-- Author End -->

Kelvin Omachonu

Sports Writer

Kelvin Omachonu is a professional football columnist and sports writer with over half a decade of experience covering major events and delivering captivating, analytically-driven stories.
A graduate of the University of Ibadan, he is fueled by a profound dedication to sports journalism and the beautiful game. His insights have previously been featured in respected outlets, including IndyPress UI, UCJ UI Newshive NG, Sportpremi, and a few others.
Away from work, Kelvin is also a basketball fan