Leicester City manager Steve Cooper has broken his silence on Wilfred Ndidi’s condition following the midfielder's harrowing ordeal in Libya.
Although Cooper assured fans that the midfielder is in excellent condition following his challenging experience while on international duty with Nigeria, he also revealed deeper concerns about his mental state after the incident.
Ndidi and his fellow Super Eagles teammates faced an unexpected crisis after being stranded at Al Abraq airport for over 15 hours.
During the long wait, players and staff were left without basic necessities such as food, water, or access to mobile networks.
The team managed to return to Nigeria on Monday evening, and their AFCON qualifying match was subsequently postponed.
Ndidi's mental and physical readiness impresses Leicester boss
Concerns about the players' physical and mental state naturally arose after such a stressful situation.
However, Cooper reassured everyone that Ndidi’s health remains intact.
He noted that Leicester maintained constant communication with the midfielder even though Wi-Fi challenges delayed some updates.
“He's fine. He's back with us, safe and well. We were in close contact with him throughout the situation they found themselves in. He kept us updated.
“There were Wi-Fi issues, so it wasn't as often as we would have liked. He was back with us soon after and has trained. He's in a safe place, and that includes the mental side of it too,” the coach said.
Upon his return, Ndidi immediately resumed training with the squad, and, according to Cooper, he performed admirably.
The Leicester boss suggested that the midfielder might have benefitted from the session, using it as a way to unwind after the tense experience in Libya.
“He trained really well yesterday, which was pleasing to see. Maybe he needed that release. He's fine. We've checked with him in every way we can. He'll be ready like everybody else,” Cooper said.
Ndidi will surely be looking to be part of the Leicester side that will trade tackles with Southampton later tomorrow.