Leon Balogun to miss Croatia game due to injury

Leon Balogun was not involved in training on Thursday morning as the Super Eagles continue their preparation for their Russia 2018 opener against Croatia.

The 29-year old defender was missing due to an injury and reports suggest that a scan has been carried out, the team officials are waiting for the results to ascertain how serious the injury is.

Coach Gernot Rohr might have to replace the Brighton and Albion defender if he won't be fit for the first game, Kenneth Omeruo is waiting in line to be called on as he seems as the most likely option in this situation.

Balogun was ruled out of Nigeria's 2014 World Cup squad after he broke his foot in his international debut against Mexico in a World cup warmup match.

Since his return from that unfortunate injury, he has been a consistent figure in the Super Eagles, bonding and having a good chemistry with William Troost-Ekong to form a strong defensive partnership.

The former Hannover defender just signed for English Premier League side Brighton on a free transfer.

Nigeria will play Croatia on Saturday at 9pm, the team left their left Essentuki base for Kaliningrad on Thursday afternoon.