Emenike out of World Cup qualifier

Emmanuel Emenike

Emmanuel Emenike has been left out of Nigeria's squad for the World Cup qualifier against Kenya on 23 March.

The Spartak Moscow striker is nursing a long-term hamstring injury which he suffered during the Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa.

Also missing is veteran defender and captain Joseph Yobo, used sparingly at the Nations Cup.

However, coach Stephen Keshi has recalled striker Obafemi Martins, who was not picked for the Nations Cup.

Eleven of those selected for the Kenya clash were in the squad that clinched the Nations Cup, including the Chelsea pair of John Obi Mikel and Victor Moses.

There were surprise call-ups for Ukraine-based winger Michael Babatunde and Portugal-based midfielder John Ogu.

"The plan is to keep working hard and bring in players that can bring something special to the team," said Keshi.

Nigeria lead their group on four points while Kenya are bottom of the standings with a single point.