By Gracious Akujobi
The Super Eagles game with the Bafana Bafana of South Africa billed for Durban on Wednesday, has suffered another setback with Chelsea’s star, Mikel Obi, opting out of the international friendly tagged the Mandela Challenge.
Top striker Emmanuel Emenike and defender Kenneth Omeruo had earlier pulled out of the match due to injury and change of club respectively.
Super Eagles media officer, Ben Alaiya disclosed that Mikel Obi has informed the Head coach Stephen Keshi that he would not be able to make the trip due to personal reason.
“It is true that Mikel has withdrawn from the game and his club has communicated to this effect. I cannot tell exactly why now but it might not be unconnected with the start of the EPL season
“It is a setback but the coach has decided not to replace him and I guess the Eagles should cope against Bafana Bafana who had also seen some of their top players pull out from the game” he stated
Alaiya also disclosed that all but Victor Moses and Fengor Ogude have reported to the camp in Durban as at Tuesday morning. They are still being expected today. The match is billed for 7.30pm on Wednesday.