Mikel, Iwobi hit Abuja for Egypt showdown

Ahead of the first leg of the 2017 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Pharaohs of Egypt on Friday March 25, English Premier League players Victor Moses and Kelechi Iheanacho have arrived Abuja to join the Super Eagles’ camp.
Among the early birds were Watford of England striker Odion Ighalo, Chelsea midfielder, Mikel Obi as well as Arsenal youngster Alex Iwobi who reported to camp early on Monday March 21.
In an exclusive chat with SayNigeria.com Sports, the Super Eagles media officer Toyin Ibitoye disclosed that the foreign based players are already trooping-in into the country, adding that all invited players are expected to be in camp by Monday March 21.
“Some of the players are in camp including Mikel and Iwobi but I can’t give you the exact number because many of them are on their way,” he said.
“Before dinner today (March 21), we expect that all invited players would have joined the team.” Watford of England goal banger Odion Ighalo who was spotted in Lagos with former ex-international, Peter Rufai has also joined the team in Abuja.
In camp already are Victor Moses, Kelechi Iheanacho, Fanendo Adi, Carl Ikeme Alex Iwobi, Aminu Umar, John Obi Mikel, Aaron Samuel, Ighalo, Oboabona, Etebo, Ifeanyi Matthew, Ike Ezenwa as at 8pm, Monday March 21.
Meanwhile, Coach Samson Siasia has streamlined the 22 home-based players he invited to just six, who will now be joined by 20 foreign baser stars.
According to Ibitoye, the home-based players are prepared for the showdown in Kaduna as well as Alexandria because they have been in camp for some time. “They have been in camp for a while now, although some of them were allowed to go and play for their respective clubs over the weekend.
The are expected to return as soon as possible,” Ibitoye continued.
“They already have an idea of how the coach wants them to play and it is an opportunity for everyone to show what they can do. The coach has said he will give every player a level playing field and everybody is ready.”
Toyin Ibitoye however disclosed that the Pharaohs of Egypt are expected to his the country on Wednesday march 23, by 9pm. The first leg encounter will hold in Kaduna on March 25, while the return leg is scheduled for Alexandria on March 29.