Everton striker Victor Anichebe, who was dropped from the Super Eagles final squad for the World Cup as a result of a “serious injury”, has wished the team the best of luck in South Africa.
Anichebe, along with Spain-based Ikechukwu Uche, was the surprise exclusion from Nigeria’s final 23-man squad for South Africa 2010, particularly after he impressed in the team’s warm-up game against Saudi Arabia last week.
“I wish the team the very best of luck in South Africa,” said the Everton ace as he left the team’s hotel on Monday.
Officials disclosed that Anichebe suffered a serious shin injury which will sideline him for several weeks.
Unconfirmed reports said Lagerback was tearful after he axed the big striker from the World Cup.
In the meantime, Austria-based defender Rabiu Afolabi told MTNFootball.com that his inclusion in the final squad was a special birthday gift for his Belgian wife, who was a year older Monday.
“Monday was my wife’s birthday. This was therefore a befitting gift for her as she has stood by me all through my career,” offered Afolabi, who was first picked for the 2002 World Cup.
“I’m equally thrilled to be going back to the World Cup. It is the dream of every player to play for his country and there can be no better stage to do so than the World Cup.”
MTN Football
