Team officials said Southampton midfielder Joe Aribo was not dropped by the Super Eagles but he instead asked to be left out of the friendlies against Algeria so as to get some rest.

The Super Eagles will play two matches against Algeria on Friday and September 27.

“Aribo is very much part of Jose Peseiro’s plans,” an official said.

“He was not dropped for the matches against Algeria because the player asked to be excused for him to take some rest after his recent transfer to the Premier League in England.”

Alex Iwobi will be expected to play a more attacking role in midfield, while Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and uncapped Raphael Onyedika will jostle for the defensive midfield positions.