Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle will be breathing easier after reports from Italy confirmed that Fisayo Dele-Bashiru will only miss two games due to an ankle injury.
The midfielder, who started in Lazio’s 0-0 draw against Venezia last weekend, was forced off in the 40th minute after sustaining a sprain.
Initially, there were concerns that he could be sidelined for a longer period, potentially ruling him out of Nigeria’s FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March.
Lazio manager Marco Baroni addressed the situation after the game, stating that Dele-Bashiru’s condition would be assessed before their Coppa Italia clash.
However, scans have now confirmed that he will miss only two matches—against Inter Milan in the Coppa Italia, this midweek and AC Milan in Serie A at the weekend.
Dele-Bashiru will be available for Super Eagles vs Rwanda, Zimbabwe
This news will come as a huge relief to Chelle, who is counting on the midfielder for the crucial World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
With Nigeria already facing challenges in midfield, losing Dele-Bashiru for an extended period would have been a significant blow.
The 23-year-old, on loan from Turkish side Hatayspor, has been one of Lazio’s standout performers this season, contributing five goals and two assists in 23 appearances across all competitions.
His form has attracted interest from Premier League giants Arsenal and Manchester City, as well as Juventus in Serie A.
Now, with a quicker-than-expected recovery, Dele-Bashiru is expected to return in time for the squad announcement.
Barring any setbacks, he should be available to help Nigeria push for vital points in the World Cup qualifiers.
