Super Eagles: 2 players who could get a shock inclusion in Chelle’s November squad

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has several decisions to make before Nigeria play against Tanzania in their November AFCON 2027 qualifiers, and two players are pushing for a place in his squad.

The Super Eagles need a response after their 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in September left them trailing in Group L.

With the November double-header carrying huge weight, Chelle will need players who are fit, performing regularly and capable of improving the team to fill vital roles.

2 Super Eagles stars who could get into Chelle’s November squad

1. Ryan Alebiosu

The 24-year-old right-back has started all 12 of Blackburn’s Championship matches this season, accumulating 1034 minutes as the Rovers continue their push towards Mowbray’s dream of a promotion to the English Premier League.

His club form gives Chelle a credible alternative to Osayi-Samuel, whose performance against Guinea-Bissau exposed his blind-sidedness.

The Birmingham City defender was caught out during the build-up to both the second and third goals in Nigeria’s 3-0 loss.

Alebiosu is not an entirely untested option. He made his Super Eagles debut against Uganda at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Morocco, playing the full match before a deep cut to his leg ruled him out of subsequent games.

His attacking instincts could also offer Nigeria another dimension. At Blackburn, he has shown an ability to advance into dangerous areas and deliver crosses, although he must continue balancing those runs with his defensive responsibilities.

With regular minutes behind him, Alebiosu has a strong argument for a return to the squad.

Whether he can displace Osayi-Samuel will depend on Chelle’s assessment of their respective performances and tactical suitability.

Based on minutes and performance alone, the Blackburn wing-back edges Ola Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel.

2. Tochukwu Nnadi

Nnadi’s return from injury has brought him into the selection conversation, although reports suggest he has already been recalled for November.

The Marseille midfielder missed Nigeria’s September qualifiers and October friendly against Russia after suffering a knee injury against Monaco in late August.

He returned to action against Troyes on 11 October, coming off the bench for 17 minutes, before playing 62 minutes in the Europa League against Olympiacos, 89 minutes against Angers and playing the entire clash in Marseille’s 4-3 win over Le Havre on Sunday.

Those appearances show that the 23-year-old is regaining match fitness after several weeks out. His challenge now is to maintain that momentum and establish himself firmly in Marseille’s midfield, helping them to stability in a rather chaotic season.

Nnadi made his Super Eagles debut at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations against Uganda, and he’s a player that Chelle is a big fan of, having watched his games at the Velodrome a few times.

His energy and ability to win tackles could give Nigeria another option as they prepare for two demanding games. His younger legs are also another advantage that could be added to a midfield with experienced players like Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi.