Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has received a boost with goalkeeper Maduka Okoye returning to full team training at Italian Serie A side Udinese.
Okoye had been sidelined during part of Udinese’s pre-season preparations in Austria, but his return to the group represents positive news for both club and country as the new season approaches.
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The Nigerian goalkeeper was included in Udinese’s squad for the club’s pre-season training camp in Lienz, Austria, which ran from July 22 to early August. He was listed among the five goalkeepers called up by head coach Kosta Runjaic.
Okoye has established himself as an important figure for Udinese and has also returned to the Super Eagles setup in recent months. He made his first Nigeria appearance in almost a year during the Super Eagles’ 2-1 friendly victory over Iran in March, completing the full 90 minutes.
His availability provides Chelle with another experienced option between the posts as Nigeria continues preparations for its upcoming international assignments.
The goalkeeper’s return is particularly significant given his competition with Stanley Nwabali and other goalkeeping options for a place in the Super Eagles squad.
Okoye will now look to regain full match sharpness with Udinese as the Italian club prepares for the 2026/27 Serie A campaign, while Nigeria will continue monitoring his progress ahead of its next competitive fixtures.
With the 26-year-old back in training and available for selection, Chelle can at least welcome greater depth and competition in the Super Eagles’ goalkeeping department.
