A drop down to under-20 level would effectively rule Nigeria's brightest youngster out of potential stardom at the Africa Cup of Nations
There is often a sense of invincibility – nay, immortality – that comes with youth, and that can lead to a certain flippancy in evaluating alternatives.
In those situations, it becomes necessary to save such a one from himself. It is precisely that intervention that is needed in order to prevent Samuel Chukwueze from passing up a great opportunity.
For young Chukwueze, it has been quite the introduction to the big time this season.