‘Striker Defied Instructions’ Keshi Moves To Replace Osaze With Michael Uchebo

Stoke City striker Osaze Odemwingie could again be shut out from Nigeria first team after coach Stephen Keshi said he did not play to instructions when he was introduced in the second half against Iran.

Osaze brought some urgency and creativity to the Eagles attack on Monday, but Keshi said the striker defied his instructions even though he was playing an unfamiliar role.

Almeria midfielder Ramon Azeez could also be axed from the starting XI after he won his third cap against Iran on Monday.

Vanguard reports that his most likely replacement will be Belgium-based Michael Uchebo, who was preferred to Azeez in the country’s warm-up games leading up to Brazil 2014.

Skipper Joseph Yobo is expected to keep his place in the first team after Turkey-based defender Godfrey Oboabona was ruled out of Saturday’s cracker as a result of a foot injury he suffered against Iran.

Yobo said that reaching a century of international caps would be an added bonus for him as he was already fulfilled to be at his third World Cup.

“I’m just happy that I made it here because towards the end of the season I got injured and it was difficult for me,” he revealed.

“Any other personal achievement will be great and I will enjoy it.”