Ndidi expected return in time for World Cup

Ndidi, 21, is nursing a hamstring injury and is expected to be out of action for several weeks.

However, Ibitoye said on a radio programme in the nation's capital Abuja that the highly-rated defensive midfielder would be fit and ready for the tournament starting June 14.

"He's making good progress, I have been in contact with the medical team (of the Super Eagles) and he is recovering faster than they had even anticipated," Ibitoye assured.

"He may not play again for Leicester City this season, but he is likely to at least play our final friendly against Czech Republic (June 6)."

Ndidi has been ruled out of the World Cup warm-up games against DR Congo in the southern city of Port Harcourt on May 28 and against England at Wembley on June 2.