Nigeria midfielder Frank Onyeka has returned to action for Coventry City just three days after suffering a hand injury, providing a timely boost for Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Onyeka came off the bench in Coventry’s 3-1 defeat by Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, making his return after being forced off against Brighton on Sunday.
The 28-year-old was introduced in the 73rd minute and played for just over 20 minutes at the end of the match.
Although he did not start against Aston Villa, his appearance suggested the injury he suffered against Brighton was not as serious as initially feared.
Onyeka had been taken off in the second half of Coventry’s 5-0 defeat by Brighton after sustaining an injury to his hand.
Caleb Yirenkyi replaced him in the 73rd minute, raising concerns about whether the midfielder would be fit in time for Nigeria’s upcoming international commitments.
His return three days later has provided an early indication that he will not face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
The timing of the midfielder’s comeback will be particularly encouraging for Chelle, with Nigeria’s training camp for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign approaching.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to begin their qualifying campaign at home against Madagascar on 25 September.
Nigeria will play the match at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo before travelling to Guinea-Bissau four days later for their second qualifying fixture.
Onyeka’s return gives Chelle another midfield option as Nigeria prepare for the two matches.
The Coventry midfielder will now be expected to continue his recovery and build up his fitness at club level before linking up with the national team.
His latest appearance also removes some of the uncertainty surrounding his availability following the injury against Brighton.
Onyeka had been able to return to competitive football in Coventry’s next match, despite initially appearing to face a spell away from the pitch.
For Nigeria, his involvement against Aston Villa means Chelle can enter the opening stages of the qualifying campaign with greater clarity over the midfielder’s condition.
The Super Eagles will need to prepare for two matches within four days, beginning with the meeting with Madagascar in Uyo and followed by the away fixture against Guinea-Bissau.
