Wilfred Ndidi has given Beşiktaş a boost by returning to full training, just a day after missing their 3-0 defeat away to Göztepe on Friday night.
The Nigerian midfielder sat out the match with a knock, raising fears among supporters of a possible long absence. But the club confirmed on Saturday morning that he was back with the squad as they prepared for their next game against Kayserispor.
Ndidi, 28, joined Beşiktaş this summer from Leicester City and has quickly become an important figure in midfield. He has already played four matches, including his debut in a 2-1 win over Eyüpspor and two appearances in the Champions League qualifiers against Lausanne Sport.
Before the September international break, Ndidi also featured in the 2-0 loss to Alanyaspor. During the break, he represented Nigeria in World Cup qualifiers, playing in the 1-0 win over Rwanda and the 1-1 draw with South Africa.
Fans had hoped to see Ndidi face fellow Nigerian midfielder Anthony Junior Dennis of Göztepe, who impressed in Beşiktaş’ defeat. The 22-year-old is being closely watched by Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle as a possible long-term successor to Ndidi in Nigeria’s midfield.
Although that duel did not take place, Beşiktaş will be relieved that their summer signing’s injury was only minor. With Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe already leading the way in the Super Lig, the Black and Whites will look to Ndidi as they aim to recover and stay in the title race.