Bayer Leverkusen head coach Kasper Hjulmand has confirmed that Nathan Tella is available for selection again after an extended spell on the sidelines. 

"Nathan is back in the squad,” Hjulmand said, as quoted by Kicker.

However, the winger is unlikely to feature in the starting lineup following his lengthy absence, with his involvement expected to come as a substitute.

The 26-year-old rejoined the main training group on Tuesday, marking his first full session in two months.

Tella had been out of action since mid-September due to persistent knee problems that ruled him out of the third matchday and required a prolonged recovery period.

The Hale End Academy graduate sustained the injury during Leverkusen’s 3–1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt on September 12, and his comeback provides Leverkusen with a timely boost before Saturday’s Bundesliga fixture away to Wolfsburg. 

Tella’s injury layoff also extended to the international stage, missing Nigeria’s last four FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda, South Africa, Lesotho, and Benin.

Additionally, he was unavailable for the recent World Cup playoff fixtures against Gabon and DR Congo.

With the Africa Cup of Nations scheduled to take place next month in Morocco, Tella will aim to build match fitness and strengthen his chances of reclaiming a spot in the Super Eagles squad. 

Wale Adejumo