ODION Ighalo has expressed regret at not being able to join up with his Super Eagles colleagues in their quest for the Africa Cup of Nations title.
The Al Shabab striker was prevented from turning up for the national team after having been selected among the 28 players for the continental championship.
The Saudi Arabian club, whom the 32-year-old joined in 2021, cited a clause in Ighalo’s contract that forbids him from returning to international.
Incidentally, they had permitted him to reverse his 2019 retirement and feature in a World Cup qualifier in November, but this time they are holding on to their top scorer.
To show his support for his teammates, Ighalo released a 30-second video on Monday, the eve of their opening match in Garoua, Cameroon against Egypt.
“Hi, my name is Odion Jude Ighalo. Here’s me wishing the Super Eagles the very best in the AFCON tournament,” said the former Manchester United striker, dressed in a Super Eagles top.
“Sorry I cannot be there but I’m supporting the boys all the way. We need prayers from Nigerians to support the team, to back them because with their prayers and support, the team will make Nigeria proud.”
Ighalo expressed confidence in the Nigeria squad to go all the way and win the country’s fourth AFCON.
“Go boys and make us proud,” he added. “You guys can do it. We have enough talent in that team that can take us to the final. God bless you guys.”
Ighalo, who was the top scorer at the last AFCON in Egypt as Nigeria finished third, is not the only major player missing from the Super Eagles squad.
Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, Watford forward Emmanuel Dennis and Glasgow Rangers defender Leon Balogun are also out of the squad for a variety of reasons.
