The availability of Kelechi Iheanacho for the Africa Cup of Nations 2023, hangs on a balance after the Leicester City striker suffered a muscle injury and was not listed in the Foxes squad in their 2-0 win over Cardiff City, platinumnewsng.com is reporting.
With AFCON 2023 billed to take place in Ivory Coast, the Leicester City coach, Enzo Maresca revealed after their victory over Cardiff in the Championship that Iheanacho picked up an injury after a Boxing Day draw against Ipswich Town.
“Kelechi had a muscle problem two days ago. We are still waiting to see if it’s something important or a matter of days. But I don’t think he will be able for the next one (against Huddersfield), “Maresca said in his post-match interview.
However, the severity of the injury is yet to be ascertained if Iheanacho will be fit before Nigeria’s first game against Guinea Bissau on January 14. If serious Iheanacho will miss the opportunity to represent his country in the biennial competition.
“We don’t know yet (if it will affect his Afcon call-up). It depends on the injury. If it’s an important injury, he has no chance to go. If it’s not important, he can go,” he added.
Jose Peseiro, head coach of Nigeria listed Kelechi Iheanacho in his final 25-man-list for the 33rd edition of Africa’s biggest tournament.