Super Eagles manager Gernot Rohr has been hit with devastating news ahead of the Total Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against the Benin Republic.

The Franco-German will have to do without one of his most improved players for the game after it was confirmed that goalkeeper Francis Uzoho has been ruled out for six months.

The AC Omonia goalkeeper picked up a nasty injury in Super Eagles’ 1-1 draw against Brazil last Sunday at the Singapore National Stadium.

The 20-year-old in full flight was trying to deal with a cross only for him to land awkwardly which has now resulted in knee ligament damage.

Uzoho’s injury comes at a time when he’s finally getting his career back on track.

The former Elche goalkeeper endured a torrid time with both club and country last campaign but he’s now enjoying a fine run of form.

Prior to being taken off in the clash against the Selecao, the 20-year-old kept Nigeria in the game with a couple of brilliant saves while he’s also featuring regularly for his club.

His injury will also come as a blow to Gernot Rohr’s plans ahead of Super Eagles clash against the Squirrels of Benin next month.

Rohr is now spurred for choices between the duo of Ikechukwu Ezenwa and Maduka Okoye as well as South-Africa based Daniel Akpeyi.

The Super Eagles will be hoping for the best possible start in their quest to return to the AFCON having finished in third position at 2019 edition held in Egypt.

After the game against the Benin Republic, the Super Eagles will be away to Lesotho for their second game in the qualifying series.