Super Eagles Coach, Eric Chelle, has named Tromsø centre-back Vince Osuji and Stade Reims defensive midfielder John Otomewo as replacements for Skipper Wilfred Ndidi and FC Basel defender, Victory Akpe, who pulled out of next week’s international friendly against Russia due to injury.

Ndidi played the full 90 minutes of Nigeria’s 2-1 win over Madagascar in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying opener but was substituted with around 15 minutes remaining in the following match against Guinea-Bissau, fuelling speculation that he had picked up a knock.

Victory, on the other hand, was forced to withdraw from the squad to face Russia after suffering a training-ground injury two days ago.

Ndidi’s withdrawal means Chelle is now without nine members of his preferred starting lineup, with Ola Aina, Bruno Onyemaechi, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze and Victor Osimhen also absent from the travelling squad.

Osuji has made two appearances for Tromsø since joining the Norwegian club in the summer, while Otomewo has featured as a substitute in seven Ligue 2 matches so far this season.