The Super Eagles head coach, Jose Peseiro, has explained why he chose not to invite Gift Orban and Victor Boniface for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Sierra Leone.

Orban and Boniface performed admirably for their respective teams in the 2022–2023 season, but Peseiro overlooked them for the Super Eagles regulars.

The 20 year-old has made a big impact since his move to KAA Gent, notching twenty goals in twenty-two appearances in his debut season.

On the other hand, Victor Boniface was joint top scorer in the Europa League last season and in the Jupiler League scored 7 goals and recorded 13 assists.

Despite snubbing both players, Peseiro insists they remain very much in his plans in the future.

“I believe in Orban and Boniface, I spent my own money to visit them, and if I should call them, it means I will have to take some of the ones currently in camp out,” Peseiro stated.

“So for Orban, Boniface and others they still have time. I understand that despite playing well they didn’t get an invitation but remember the likes of Osimhen and Awoniyi all did well last season,” he added.