Nigeria’s preparations for the upcoming international friendly matches against Poland and Portugal have suffered another setback after Championship club Millwall FC refused to release winger Femi Azeez for the games.
Azeez, who recently enjoyed a breakthrough spell with the Super Eagles during the Unity Cup in London, was expected to be part of Eric Chelle’s squad after being drafted in as a replacement for injured winger Samuel Chukwueze.
However, Millwall exercised their right not to release the player because he was not included in the original squad list submitted for the June friendlies.
The 24-year-old forward emerged as one of the standout performers during Nigeria’s successful Unity Cup campaign, scoring twice and providing an assist to strengthen his case for a regular place in the national team setup.
His impressive displays had earned him another opportunity with the Super Eagles before the club’s decision brought an end to those hopes.
Millwall’s decision is also believed to be influenced by the growing transfer interest surrounding the player.
Azeez has become one of the most sought-after talents outside the Premier League, with clubs including Brighton & Hove Albion, AFC Bournemouth, Aston Villa and Crystal Palace reportedly monitoring his situation ahead of the summer transfer window.
Reports indicate that Millwall are keen to protect one of their most valuable assets as speculation over his future intensifies.
Azeez’s absence adds to a growing list of unavailable players for Chelle, who is already without several key members of the squad.
Nevertheless, the Super Eagles coach has maintained confidence in the players available for the high-profile encounters against Poland and Portugal.
While Nigerian fans will be disappointed not to see one of the country’s emerging stars in action, the latest development underlines the rapid rise of Azeez, whose performances for both club and country have elevated his profile and attracted attention from some of England’s top-flight sides.
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