Head coach Eric Chelle has named his 23-man Super Eagles squad for the March international window, with three new players earning their first invitations to Nigeria’s senior national team.
The headline inclusions are defender Emmanuel Fernandez of Rangers F.C., winger Philip Otele from Hamburger SV, and forward Collins Yira Sor of K.R.C. Genk.
Their inclusion underlines Chelle’s intention to refresh the squad and reward consistent club performances as the Super Eagles continue to rebuild ahead of important international fixtures.
Fernandez’s call-up follows his growing influence in defence at Rangers, where his composure, aerial strength, and positional awareness have stood out.
The young centre-back is expected to add depth and healthy competition to Nigeria’s backline, which, despite having experienced options, has been in need of reinforcements.
In attack, Otele’s invitation reflects his strong form in Germany.
The Hamburger SV winger has attracted attention for his pace, dribbling ability, and creativity in the final third.
His direct style offers the Super Eagles an additional option on the flanks, an area where the team has occasionally lacked penetration.
Yira Sor’s inclusion, meanwhile, highlights Chelle’s desire to increase versatility in the forward line.
The Genk attacker is known for his intelligent movement, pressing ability, and eye for goal.
Comfortable across multiple attacking roles, he brings tactical flexibility that could prove crucial in different match situations.
The trio will be eager to seize their opportunity as they join more experienced internationals in camp.
Their presence not only strengthens competition within the squad but also injects fresh energy into the team.
The Super Eagles are expected to face Jordan and Iran in international friendlies scheduled to be played in Turkey, despite ongoing tensions in parts of the Middle East.
FULL SQUAD LIST
Goalkeepers:
Maduka Okoye (Udinese)
Adeleye Adebayo (Volos FC)
Francis Uzoho (Omonia FC)
Defenders:
Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC)
Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (Hull City)
Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City)
Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos)
Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto)
Igoh Ogbu (Slavia Prague)
Emmanuel Fernandez (Glasgow Rangers)
Midfielders:
Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC)
Frank Onyeka (Coventry FC)
Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas FC)
Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge)
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (SS Lazio)
Forwards:
Ademola Lookman (Atletico Madrid)
Samuel Chukwueze (Fulham FC)
Simon Moses (Paris FC)
Chidera Ejuke (Sevilla FC)
Paul Onuachu (Trabzonspor AS)
Akor Adams (Sevilla FC)
Philip Otele (Hamburger SV)
Collins Yira Sor (KRC Genk)