Why Cardiff stopped Collins from Eagles friendlies

  • Post category:Sports

Cardiff City manager Erol Bulut emphasizes the importance of safeguarding Jamilu Collins, which is why he insisted on having the player withdrawn from Nigeria’s upcoming international friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique.

Nigeria is scheduled to face the Green Falcons of Saudi Arabia in Portimão, Portugal on Friday, October 13, followed by a match against Mozambique in the same city three days later.

PUNCH Sports Extra had previously reported that Collins was doubtful for the friendlies. Despite the uncertainty, Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro invited the left-back for the games. However, it was officially confirmed on Monday via the Super Eagles’ official social media account that the 29-year-old will not be available for the international break. Chidozie Awaziem has been called up in his place.

The Super Eagles X account stated that Collins had been struggling with his fitness leading up to the international break.

Collins missed a total of 45 games for Cardiff last season after sustaining a cruciate ligament injury against West Brom in August 2022. This injury sidelined him for nine months before he began training in June and made his way back into the team.

Following the announcement of Collins’ withdrawal from the Nigeria squad for the Saudi Arabia and Mozambique friendlies, a UK publication, walesonline, reported that Bulut had plans to discuss the matter with the Eagles’ coach. Bulut was quoted as saying, “Maybe I have to talk with the national team manager, because he [Collins] will get injured. Neither side wants that. The club doesn’t need it, and the national team doesn’t need it. We have to protect him.”

Collins has already participated in nine Championship games this season and has one assist to his name. The break will provide him with two weeks of rest, which will be beneficial for his recovery and well-being.

This Post Has 12 Comments

Leave a Reply