“I want to make it clear that representing my nation is an honour.’’
Real Sociedad striker Umar Sadiq has explained the controversy surrounding his injury amid the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations.
Mr Sadiq seemed ready to play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s attack at the tournament following his return to fitness with La Real this season.
However, Mr Sadiq was sent home from the Nigerian squad after a knee injury, leading the 26-year-old to return to San Sebastian.
Nigeria head coach Jose Peseiro has expressed his ‘confusion’ regarding the injury, especially after Sadiq came off the bench in La Real’s midweek Copa del Rey win over Osasuna just days after his return.
Mr Peseiro dismissed rumours of Mr Sadiq wanting to return to Spain over playing at AFCON 2023, and the forward has supported the claims of a misunderstanding.
“I don’t understand the accusations I’ve received in recent days which claim I invented an injury to return to my club. I want to make it clear that representing my nation is a privilege and an honour,” Mr Sadiq wrote on his official Instagram page.
“The Nigeria medical staff told me I had suffered a meniscus injury. The coach decided to replace me, based on that advice, as he was unsure if I could play at the tournament. After returning to my club, they told me I only had a bruise, so I returned to training. Representing Nigeria is a priority for me; I will return with joy if that happens. I’m sad not to be with my teammates but happy because they are winning.”
Mr Sadiq is expected to return to the starting lineup as La Real resumes La Liga action this weekend with a trip to Celta Vigo.
