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| Zadok Yohanna |
It has been confirmed that Brighton youngster Zadok Yohanna is unlikely to be available for Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers as he continues his recovery from a minor fitness setback.
Yohanna has been working on his conditioning and strength in training after Brighton head coach Fabian Hürzeler revealed that the youngster suffered a minor setback.
The Nigerian had been involved with Brighton’s first team earlier in the season, making substitute appearances during pre-season and against Aston Villa. He also featured in the club’s two UEFA Conference League matches against Tromsø.
However, his recent absence from the squad indicates that Brighton are taking a cautious approach to his recovery and development. Academy player Miah Oriola has instead been named among the substitutes for the club’s last two Premier League matches against Chelsea and Leeds United.
Yohanna is not expected to return to competitive action until Brighton’s meeting with Sunderland after the international break, a timeline that could rule him out of Nigeria’s plans for the upcoming AFCON 2027 qualifiers.
Hürzeler has stressed that Brighton do not want to rush the youngster, particularly as he continues to adjust to the physical demands of Premier League football.
The Brighton boss explained that Yohanna experienced a minor setback and needs time to adapt to the increased intensity of top-level football in England.
With his return date still beyond the upcoming international window, Nigeria will have to monitor Yohanna’s fitness closely as the Super Eagles prepare for their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign.
Brighton are expected to prioritise ensuring the youngster is fully fit before returning him to competitive action.