Augsburg manager Jess Thorup has admitted he was left surprised by Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle’s decision to omit Frank Onyeka from the 23-man squad for last month’s World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.

Onyeka has enjoyed an impressive campaign with Augsburg, following his season-long loan move from Brentford last summer. The midfielder’s consistent performances have proven pivotal, with the Bundesliga side currently sitting just three points adrift of a European qualification spot.

His omission from the final squad came as a shock to many, particularly after he had been included in Nigeria’s initial 39-man provisional list for the qualifying fixtures.

The 27-year-old Onyeka confessed he was hurt by the decision, while Augsburg boss Thorup echoed the sentiment, expressing his disappointment at the snub.

“Yes, I believe Frank has had an outstanding season in one of Europe’s top leagues,” Thorup said.

“I was genuinely surprised he wasn’t called up to the Nigeria squad. I was fully expecting him not only to be part of the team but to be in the starting line-up as well.

“We were all taken aback by the coach’s decision, but ultimately that was his call. Frank can only continue to perform at this high level and hope that he will be selected next time.”

Augsburg have suffered just one defeat in their last nine matches and will now be aiming to finish the season strongly, with hopes of securing European football for the first time since 2015.