Mikel, Akpeyi out of Serbia game

.Rohr to work with two goalkeepers

By Taofeek Babalola

There is strong indication that the Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel and team’s goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi would not be available for the Nigeria’s second international friendly match against Serbia national team on March 27 at The Hive Stadium in London, Sportinglens.blogspot.com reports.

The duo had already missed Friday friendly game against White and Reds of Poland at the Stadion Miejski Wroclaw. Mikel missed the trip to Poland because he is trying to renew his work permit in China while Chippa United goalkeeper was ruled out of the game due to visa hitches.

In a programme monitored on Lagos TV, Ibitoye confirmed that it is unlikely for Mikel and Akpeyi to sort themselves out before the match-day on Tuesday.

"We will miss our captain and it will give other players the opportunity to step up. Unfortunately, for Mikel, the issue of his work permit is not sorted out yet and it is going to take some time and he is doubtful for Serbia game. Akpeyi is also having issue with his visa and I don't think he will finish on time to be part of the London game.

"So coach Rohr will make do with two goalkeepers for the two friendly matches. Maybe he will use one goalkeeper for first game and another keeper for the second game. That is the situation right now," Ibitoye said.