Uncapped Patrick Owomoyela of Armenia Bielefeld and Ayila Yussuf of Dynamo Kiev have been included in Nigeria’s 21-man squad for their friendly international against South Africa on November 17.
Both Owomoyela, whose father is Nigerian and mother German, and Yussuf have been impressive for their European clubs this season.
Nigeria will be led by skipper Jay Jay Okocha for the annual friendly in honour of former South Africa president Nelson Mandela.
Other stars called up include Inter Milan striker Obafemi Martins, Joseph Yobo of Everton, Portsmouth striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni and West Bromwich Albion forward Nwankwpo Kanu.
Officials said the players are expected to fly down to South Africa from their bases on November 15. — Sapa-AFP
Nigeria squad:
Defenders: Chidi Odiah (CSKA Moscow/Russia), Ifeanyi Udeze (PAOK Salonika/Greece), Joseph Yobo (Everton/England), Joseph Enakahire (Sporting Lisbon/portugal), Obinna Nwaneri (Enyimba), Taye Taiwo (Lobi Stars), Patrick Owomoyela (Armenia Bielefeld/Germany)
Midfielders: Garba Lawal (Santa Clara/Portugal), Seyi Olofinjana (Wolverhampton Wanderers/England), John Utaka (RC Lens/France), Wilson Oruma (Sochaux/France), Jay Jay Okocha (Bolton/England), Osaze Odemwingie (Lille/France), Ayila Yussuf (Dynamo Kiev/Ukraine)
Strikers: Obafemi Martins (Inter Milan/Italy), Bartholomew Ogbeche (Paris Saint Germain/France), Nwankwo Kanu (West Bromwich Albion/England), Yakubu Aiyegbeni (Portsmouth/England), Julius Aghahowa (Shakhtar Donetsk/Ukraine)