FCV Dender have confirmed that Nigerian defender Benjamin Fredrick has suffered a knee injury and is now undergoing rehabilitation in England at Brentford, the club’s official website reported on Friday.

The centre-back, who is owned by Premier League side Brentford FC, sustained the injury while training with FCV Dender EH, where he has been on loan since the start of the 2025–26 season.

The setback occurred shortly after Fredrick returned to Belgium from international duty.

As a result of the injury, Fredrick has been ruled out of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, ending his hopes of making a first appearance at the tournament for the Super Eagles.

The timing represents a significant loss for Nigeria, as the defender had established himself as a trusted figure under Eric Chelle.

Medical assessments indicate that Fredrick will not be able to return to action until after the conclusion of the Africa Cup of Nations, leaving a gap in the Super Eagles’ backline during the tournament.

FCV Dender and Brentford will continue to monitor his recovery as he undergoes rehabilitation in England, with hopes that he can regain full fitness in the coming months.

Wale Adejumo