Real Sociedad striker Umar Sadiq has addressed the circumstances surrounding his departure from the Super Eagles squad just days before the commencement of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Initially thought to be sidelined due to a knee injury sustained during Nigeria’s friendly match against Guinea, the 26-year-old’s condition was reevaluated by the Nigerian medical team.
Following an examination, Sadiq said to be unfit for AFCON, leading to his replacement by Terem Moffi.
Surprisingly, shortly after leaving the national team camp, Sadiq was spotted back in training with Real Sociedad. In a detailed Instagram post on Friday, he revealed that his club’s medical team had diagnosed him with a bruise, not a knee injury.
“Representing Nigeria is always my priority; I will never take it for granted,” Sadiq said.
“During the friendly match against Guinea, I experienced a significant impact from two Guinean defenders, leading to a penalty in favour of Nigeria.
“Despite the medical team recommending substitution for preventive measures, I insisted on continuing to play and completed the game. The following day, my knee swelled.
“The Super Eagles’ medical team conducted a thorough examination, revealing a meniscus injury.
“Consequently, the manager decided to replace me based on the medical assessment, considering uncertainties about my fitness for the AFCON.
“Upon returning to my club and undergoing thorough examinations, the medical team revealed that I had only suffered a bruise, and as a result, I was cleared to resume training.”
