By Boluwatife Kehinde
Galatasaray have confirmed that Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has sustained moderate ankle ligament damage while on international duty with the Super Eagles.
The 26-year-old forward was forced off in the first half of Nigeria’s 1-0 World Cup qualifying win over Rwanda in Uyo on Saturday after a heavy challenge. He was replaced by Cyriel Dessers and has since been ruled out of the Super Eagles’ next crucial qualifier against South Africa in Bloemfontein.
READ ALSO: Siasia explains why Rwandan players targeted Victor Osimhen in Nigeria’s win
Following his return to Istanbul for further tests, Galatasaray announced on their official website that scans at the club’s sponsor hospital revealed stretching and bleeding in Osimhen’s ankle ligaments.
“In the examinations performed today at our sponsor hospital for our Football A Team player Victor Osimhen, a moderate sprain (stretching and bleeding) was detected in his ankle ligaments,” team doctor Op. Dr. Yener İnce confirmed.
He added that treatment has already begun to speed up the striker’s recovery. “The necessary treatment has been initiated in order for our football player to return to the field as soon as possible,” İnce said.
READ ALSO: “I always fear sending Osimhen on international duty” – Galatasaray Boss
The setback comes at a critical stage for Galatasaray, who are balancing their domestic title defence with preparations for the return of the UEFA Champions League.
Osimhen, who joined the Turkish champions permanently this summer, had made a strong start in Istanbul, scoring twice in his opening two Super Lig appearances before the international break.
