Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi has recalled Ike Uche for the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifier away in South Africa on Wednesday.
Uche, 30, who is expected to travel along with his older brother, Kalu, to Cape Town, will replace Uche Nwofor in Nigeria’s 23-man squad.
Uche last featured for Nigeria in the 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso at last year’s Afcon final.
He was omitted from the Super Eagles squad for this year’s World Cup, after claims of tactical indiscipline by Keshi.
Ikechukwu Uche Called Up for 2015 Afcon Qualifier in South Africa.
His inclusion in the squad for the Bafana Bafana comes few days after the 52-year-old tactician had claimed the Villarreal marksman wants to be “begged” to return back into the African champions’ fold.
But the striker promptly dismissedKeshi’s claim, saying: “It’s an honour to play for Nigeria. I don’t expect to be begged or given special treatment. I’m available when/if considered for selection.”
Nwofor and El-Kanemi Warriors goalkeeper David Obiazor were axed from the team, after Saturday’s 3-2 loss to Congo in Calabar.
The former Nigeria U-20 star is currently a free agent after his contract with Dutch second tier club VVV Venlo was terminated by mutual consent.
Meanwhile, Kalu’s invitation comes as a surprise to many. The ex-Almeria and Espanyol midfielder has maintained a low football profile since leaving Turkish side Kasımpaşa SK in October last year.
The 31-year-old currently plays for Al Rayyan SC on loan from El Jaish SC both in the Qatar Stars League.
Nigeria trail South Africa and Congo in Group A of the 2015 Afcon qualifier.
Coach Ephraim Mashaba’s side earned a 3-0 win in Sudan on Friday.
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