Super Eagles head coach Samson Siasia has pruned down his squad of home stars, underlining the fact that preparations for the 2017 AFCON qualifiers against Egypt has moved up several levels.
Five players have been released from camp while another one has been transferred to the U23 team also currently in camp in preparation for an international friendly against Brazil.
Defenders Christopher Madaki and Oke Ogagatewho, midfielder Hassan Yau, attackers Prince Aggreh and Ezekiel Bassey have been told to return and stay with their clubs while petit winger Bright Onyedikachi has been transferred to the Olympic Team.
Super Eagles media officer Toyin Ibitoye said that only 13 players are now expected in camp next week as the coaches strive to raise the stakes ahead of the crucial games against Egypt.
“The coaches are gradually cutting down the numbers,” Ibitoye disclosed.
“Next week, more players will be released to their clubs and some others will be transferred to the Olympic team also currently in camp ahead of the international friendly against Brazil. I am sure the coaches already have an idea of those home stars that will join the foreign legion for the final phase of preparation in a week’s time,” he added.