Victor Eletu, an AC Milan player, has joined the Flying Eagles’ training camp in preparation for the 2017 FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina.
According to Soccernet.ng, the u20 national team of Nigeria’s official spokesman, Sharif Abdallah, acknowledged the young player’s presence.
Eletu, a versatile player who can play both central midfield and defence, was initially unable to join the team in Abuja earlier due to schedule conflicts with his club obligations at AC Milan.
However, he managed to secure his entry visa to Argentina in Milan. He made it to Buenos Aires in time to reinforce the team before a key warm-up game against fellow qualifiers Colombia.
Eletu’s addition to the squad is anticipated to give the midfield the much-needed creative boost it lacked during the recent U20 AFCON tournament in Egypt, where the Flying Eagles placed third.
On Sunday, May 21, the team will face the Dominican Republic in Mendoza to begin play in the World Cup.
The Flying Eagles will face five-time champions Brazil and Italy in Group D, two football superpowers recognised for their robust youth development initiatives. This will be a difficult job for the Flying Eagles.
Yet, Eletu’s inclusion in the squad offers some optimism as the Nigerian team looks to stand out in the competition and compete against strong opposition.
