Super Eagles released their final squad for the crucial 2025 AFCON qualifier games against Benin and Rwanda last week as head coach Augustine Eguaveon opted against Cyril Dessers' inclusion much to the relief of Rangers head coach Philippe Clement amidst fitness concerns, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The attacker is one of the pivotal players for the Scottish side and as much as he would love to be involved in international duty with Nigeria, he wasn't selected although Sadiq Umar was given a call-up, a news which has been received with so much satisfaction by his club.
Cyriel Dessers may be disappointed with the decision to omit him from the Nigeria squad, especially considering Sadiq Umar's recent goal-scoring form. However, the Rangers manager will be relieved to retain Dessers' services at Auchenhowie.
Nigeria's assistant coach, Daniel Ogunmodede, explained the decision in quotes reported by the Rangers Review on November 10th: "Umar Sadiq had been a regular in the team, but he was also sidelined due to injury. Now that he's back, the coach felt we needed a striker of his profile."
"He considered other strikers as well, but ultimately made his decision based on his assessment," Ogunmodede added.
Cyriel Dessers' inconsistent form for the Rangers this season has drawn criticism and impacted his international prospects. Despite his decent goal tally, his performances have been erratic.
With other talented strikers like Victor Osimhen and Victor Boniface in the Nigerian squad, Dessers' omission from the recent international fixtures is understandable.
To regain his form and potentially return to the national team, Dessers needs consistent playing time and training with Rangers. Paul relies heavily on Dessers to lead the line and help Rangers regain momentum in their domestic title challenge.
By Olaleye Oluwadamilola