AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Eric Chelle reveals injury behind George Ilenikhena’s shock Super Eagles omission

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has revealed that an injury forced George Ilenikhena out of Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Tanzania.

The youngster’s absence had attracted attention among Nigerian football supporters, particularly after making an impressive start to his international career during the September break.

Ilenikhena marked his senior debut with a goal in Nigeria’s 2-1 victory over Madagascar in Uyo, immediately raising expectations about his role in Chelle’s plans.

However, the former Monaco striker was surprisingly left out of the squad for the double-header against Tanzania, sparking questions about the decision and his prospects with the national team.

Chelle has now cleared the air, explaining that the forward’s omission had nothing to do with his performances but was necessitated by an injury.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, the Nigerian coach also expressed frustration with the criticism surrounding his squad selection, suggesting that some of the discussions were based on incomplete information.

“I am surprised like you know I am not in the social media,” Chelle expressed. “Some people they send me lots of things. I am surprised because there are no questions about the group and the players.”

“Once again, if you have to tell me something you can go straight and if I want to give you an answer I give you.”

The coach subsequently addressed the growing questions about Ilenikhena’s absence, challenging those criticising his decision to establish the circumstances before drawing conclusions.

“For example, I saw lots of people speak about why George Ilenikhena is not here. Do you know that he has an injury?,” the Super Eagles manager questioned. “Before, some of you didn’t know. I think everybody needs to stay calm.”

Chelle accepts responsibility as Nigeria prepare for Tanzania

Beyond the controversy surrounding Ilenikhena’s omission, Chelle also reiterated his willingness to shoulder responsibility for Nigeria’s results as he prepares his team for the AFCON qualifying assignment.

The Super Eagles manager acknowledged the expectations attached to leading one of Africa’s most prominent national teams, insisting that he understands the accountability that comes with the position.

He maintained that while players deserve credit when the team wins, the responsibility for disappointing results ultimately rests with him.

“I have the responsibility and if I have to take my responsibility, I will take it. If we win this is the players and if we lose this is my responsibility and I am totally agree with that,” he concluded.

Nigeria will now have to find alternatives in attack, with Ilenikhena and Victor Osimhen both unavailable for the upcoming fixtures.

Chelle is expected to rely on the attacking options available to him, including Taiwo Awoniyi and Tolu Arokodare, as the three-time African champions pursue maximum points against Tanzania.

With qualification ambitions firmly in focus, the Super Eagles will hope their available forwards can deliver the goals needed to compensate for the absence of two of their attacking options.