Nigeria goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme, has expressed disappointment that he will not be part of the Super Eagles’ squad to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
Ikeme, who took to his Twitter handle to express his disappointment, however, wished the team good luck in the tournament as he continues to battle with acute leukaemia.
The Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup finals is scheduled to kickoff from June 14 to July 15.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 36-year-old played a part in the three-time African champions qualification for Russia 2018.
He featured in the first three games against Swaziland (home and away) and Zambia.
But his involvement was cut short after he was diagnosed with the ailment after returning abnormal blood tests during a routine pre-season check-up.
It was recently announced that he has been handed an honorary place in Nigeria’s World Cup squad as he will be the 24th man in the squad.
But the Wolves goalkeeper said he was disappointed he won’t be on the pitch in Russia.
“To say I’m devastated about missing the World Cup is an understatement. But I just want to thank everyone in Nigeria for their prayers, love and messages.
“I can’t explain how much they mean to me. I also want to wish my teammates, coaches and NFF luck for the summer coming,” Ikeme tweeted on Friday.
He made his debut for Nigeria in 2015 against Tanzania in an Africa Cup of Nations Cup qualifying match, and has been capped 10 times. (NAN)
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