TEAM NEWS

TEAM NEWS

Nigeria

Newcastle United striker Obafemi Martins will not be available against both Kenya and Tunisia this month as he has opted for a hernia operation this summer.Nigeria are sweating on the fitness of several players ahead of Sunday's game.

The players include Hoffenheim forward Chinedu Obasi, Bolton defender Danny Shittu as well as Everton star Joseph Yobo.Defender Obinna Nwaneri will not be available for this match as he is serving out a one-match suspension after he picked up his second booking in Mozambique in March.

Former international Victor Ikpeba ruffled a few feathers after he suggested that some of the high-profile absentees during the friendlies against Republic Ireland and France should not be considered for this game.

Squad:

Goalkeepers - Vincent Enyeama, Austin Ejide, Dele Aiyenugba

Defenders – Onyekachi Apam, Yusuf Mohammed, Joseph Yobo, Danny Shittu, Obinna Nwaneri, Taye Taiwo, Chidi Odiah, Elderson Echiejile, Dele Adeleye, Olubayo Adefemi, Chibuzo Okonkwo

Midfielders - John Mikel Obi, Sani Kaita, Seyi Olofinjana, Kalu Uche, Yusuf Ayila, Oluwafemi Ajilore, Dickson Etuhu

Forwards - Nwankwo Kanu, Obafemi Martins, Osaze Odemwingie, Obinna Nsofor, Ikechukwu Uche, Chinedu Obasi, Joseph Akpala

Kenya

Midfielders John 'Mo' Muiruri and Austin Makacha have been recalled to the team for the trip to Nigeria. 'Mo', 30, who last featured for Kenya in a 2-1 shock loss against Eritrea at Kasarani in September 2006, plays for Norway's second tier side Moss FK.

Austin Makacha, a kingpin in the Kenyan midfield and 2008 Kenya Premier League midfielder of the year, returns to the team after missing the Tunisia tie following a club-country controversy. Makacha plays for IK Sirius in Sweden's lower league.

Allan Wanga of Angolan side Petro Atletico is also back in the fold to boost the Stars strike force. Coach Hey did not fly out with the team to Nigeria over a pay row. He later travelled after the sports minister intervened.

Squad:

Goalkeepers- David Okello, Willis Ochieng’, Arnold Origi

Defenders- Joseph Shikokoti, Musa Otieno, Pascal Ochieng’, Mulinge Munandi, George Owino, Julius Owino, John Njoroge

Midfielders- MacDonald Mariga, Victor Mugabe, John Muiruri, Austin Makacha, Robert Mambo, Peter Opiyo, Osborn Monday

Forwards- Patrick Oboya, Dennis Oliech, Allan Wanga

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Nigeria - Osaze Odemwingie: The Russia-based forward posted a stinker against Mozambique in March but he has since redeemed himself with a man-of-the-match performance against France in Saint-Etienne. He covered every blade of grass, from defence down to attack, and a similar showing against kenya would propel the Eagles to a resounding victory.

Kenya - MacDonald Mariga: For a squad with seven defenders and seven midfielders, defence will be the name of the game. Parma’s MacDonald Mariga, fresh from helping his side gain promotion back to Italian Serie A, is expected to take the commanding role in midfield with his ball winning and passing skills. He has already been linked with a transfer to a top Italian club in the summer.