Nigeria, June 6 -- Ahead of Friday's international friendly against Russia at the Luzhniki Stadium, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle addressed the media, explaining player absences and the team's preparation for a tough opponent.

Chelle, who led Nigeria to victory in the Unity Cup tournament in London, is using the friendly to continue shaping his squad ahead of critical Africa Cup of Nations and 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

However, he will be without some top talents due to club-related decisions, injuries, and administrative issues.

"Osimhen and Lookman are great players with good technique and intelligence, but the season is over, and they are at a time when they have to decide their future at club level, and that is why they...