Club Brugge manager Nicky Hayen has confirmed Raphael Onyedika is available for selection ahead of his side’s UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first-leg clash against Aston Villa.
The Nigerian midfielder picked up an injury during Club Brugge’s league fixture against Standard Liege last month and was forced to miss last weekend’s Belgian Pro League game against KAA Gent.
However, Softfootball understands Onyedika has returned to training and is now in contention to feature in Tuesday night’s crucial European encounter.
He trained on Monday. In principle, he can play,
Hayen told reporters during his pre-match press conference.
The news comes as a significant boost for the Belgian champions, who will host Aston Villa in the opening leg of their last-16 tie at the Jan Breydelstadion.
Onyedika has been an important figure for Club Brugge throughout their Champions League campaign and has contributed one goal in the competition this season.
His expected return gives Hayen another experienced option in midfield as the Belgian side look to secure a positive result before the return leg in England.
