Maduka Okoye says concerns over fitness and form led him to withdraw from Nigeria’s squad for the Africa Cup of nations in Morocco.
The 24-year-old Udinese Calcio goalkeeper did not take part in the tournament, where the Super Eagles finished third.
Speaking to German outlet Kicker, Okoye said he had been out of action for close to two months following a suspension related to betting issues.
“Since I was not Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, I believed it was better to remain at Udinese, work on my form, and also show appreciation to the club for standing by me during a difficult period,” he said.
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Okoye has now rejoined the national team camp ahead of upcoming international friendlies in Turkey.
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Okoye is expected to get playing time as Nigeria faces Iran and Jordan in the absence of the first-choice goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali
