Maduka Okoye has been has been handed a late call-up by Super Eagles coach, Jose Peseiro, ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique.

The last time Okoye was invited to the Super Eagles was in an international friendly game against Portugal in November 2022.

The 24-year-old made a summer move to Udinese from Watford FC and has been an unused substitute for the Italian Serie A side.

Okoye was the first choice goalkeeper at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations but he appears to have fallen out of favour under Jose Peseiro’s tutelage.

The Super Eagles gaffer, Peseiro invited 25 players for the games, with Francis Uzoho, Olorunleke Ojo, and Adeleye Adebayo as the goalkeepers.

Amongst the three called up, Cyprus-based shot-stopper Francis Uzoho is the only goalkeeper who has reported to the Super Eagles camp.

Enyimba goalkeeper, Ojo’s availability is not certain as he is reportedly awaiting his Portuguese visa which will enable him make the trip.

Hapoel Jerusalem goalkeeper, Adeleye’s availability is also in heavy doubt due to the crisis in Israel.

The Super Eagles will play against Saudi Arabia on Friday, October 13, 2023, while the fixture with Mozambique is scheduled for Monday, 16 October, 2023.