The Super Eagles have now reportedly received a big boost ahead of their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final against Ivory Coast.
FC Porto defender Zaidu Sanusi missed his side's semi-final tie against Bafana Bafana due to injury, and was previously a doubt for the upcoming competition decider.
Read: Bad omen for AFCON finalists 'emerges'
Reports suggested that the 26-year-old had begun training separately as the Super Eagles prepare for their crunch encounter against the Elephants on Sunday night.
Speaking ahead of the game, Nigeria manager Jose Peseiro expressed uncertainty at the prospect of the centre-back playing a role in the match.
"I don't know if he (Sanusi) can recover, I hope he can recover for the next match but he's out now because of injury," Peseiro said, per The Nigerian Voice. "He didn't do any practice these last few days."
However, according to TV360 Nigeria, an unnamed member of Nigeria's coaching team has stated that: "Zaidu is not out of the competition. He will be fine for the final."
Before picking up an injury during a Super Eagles training session leading up to their semi-final triumph, the defender played an important role in helping the team get to that point.
Prior to their meeting with Bafana, Nigeria were able to keep four consecutive clean sheets after drawing 1-1 with Equatorial Guinea in their opener, and the left-back was a big part of those shutouts.
Read: Howler of the Week: Ronaldo's antics in Saudi
He contributed both defensively and offensively, creating three chances and making 90 passes, per Opta Analyst. Without the ball, the 26-year-old has managed to win two tackles, make five interceptions and recover the ball on 11 occasions at the tournament so far.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
WATCH: