Super Eagles forward Henry Onyekuru is back in full training after being side-lined with a knee injury he picked up playing for Anderlecht against his former side Eupen in December.
The Everton loanee was ruled out of action for up-to six months and had to travel back to the Tofee’s state of the art USM Finch Farm for treatment and rehabilitation.
The 21-year-old forward however returned earlier than expected and will be desperate to prove his fitness to manager Genort Rohr as he eyes a spot in Nigeria’s squad to the World Cup.
“To be able to come back without having a surgery is a blessing.” the World Cup hopeful told BBC Sports.
“I have to prove that I’m able to go and play, and once I do that, it’s up to the manager (Gernot Rohr) to select the team.”
“I had a good chat with Rohr, and he wished me well but I would love to use these remaining games to show I’m back and ready to soar with the Super Eagles.”
“Everything is God’s plan, I am still young and in my career maybe I can play two or three World Cups, but for now I am focused on playing well for Anderlecht, and see what happens in the summer.” the forward added.
Before the injury, Onyekuru was one of Anderlecht’s top performers with nine goals in 19 Belgian top-flight matches and was part of the side’s four Champions League games.
After being awarded the Most Promising Player Award in Belgium, he was given a run-out in Nigeria’s final World Cup qualifier where he came on as a second half substitute of the 1 all draw with Algeria. He performance was captivating but his incredible rise was soon tragically cut short by a horrendous injury.
Despite the challenges the forward has endured, the timing for his return couldn’t be more perfect, he will be hoping he re-finds form in the next few games if he’s to gate crash his way into Genort Rohr’s World Cup plans.
