‘Everyone needs to accept it’ - Awoniyi backs Chelle’s AFCON list, calls for Nigerians to support the Super Eagles

The striker is currently recovering from an injury that has seen him being left out of the named final squad.

His absence from the squad coincides with a challenging start to the season at Nottingham Forest and an injury that will keep him out of the upcoming Premier League match against Tottenham.

The 28-year-old, who is currently sidelined due to an injury, emphasised that the final decision rests with the coaching staff. 

In an interview with Channels TV, Awoniyi emphasised that the coach's selections must be respected and that the country's backing is vital for the team's chances of success.

"It is always a great list, no matter which player gets on it. Not everyone can be on the list," Awoniyi stated. "That's what every player needs to accept, and that's what the country also needs to know."

"Once the coach brings out the list, he knows what he wants. He has seen the players and he made the decision," Awoniyi explained. 

"Everyone needs to accept it, and the whole country just needs to support the boys and give them the maximum support they need. Hopefully, and by God's grace, the cup will be ours."

"I believe we will be back to where we were before," he said. "When you look at it, it's been years without European football. 

“Now we play European football... these are things that have a lot of effects on the team as well, but sometimes we just have to keep on going."

Nigeria, led by coach Eric Chelle, will be aiming for their fourth AFCON title. The Super Eagles are in Group C and will begin their campaign against Tanzania on December 23, followed by matches against Tunisia on December 27 and Uganda on December 30.