Nigeria international, John Mikel Obi, has had to withdraw from the squad to face South Africa in the Nelson Mandela Challenge on Wednesday due to a stomach infection.
The Chelsea midfielder was called up for the clash in Durban but will now play no part after falling ill, joining Emmanuel Emenike and Kenneth Omeruo in having withdrawn themselves from the squad.
Super Eagles Chief Coach, Stephen Keshi, confirmed the news, telling reporters: “Mikel has been withdrawn from the squad.
“He has a stomach bug.”
The 26-year-old’s absence will come as a big blow to Nigeria as they look to fine-tune the squad ahead of next month’s vital 2014 World Cup qualifier against Malawi.
The news is also less than ideal for Chelsea, who kick off the new Premier League season away to Crystal Palace on Sunday and will have to wait on Mikel’s condition before making a decision on the match-day squad.
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