Nigeria's Dessers eager to shine for Panathinaikos after six-month injury layoff

Nigeria international striker Cyriel Dessers says he is eager to return to action after a six-month injury layoff that kept him out of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Dessers picked up the injury during training camp in January, missed the tournament and returned to Greece for treatment. Having joined Panathinaikos from Scottish Premiership side Rangers last summer, he made only five appearances for the Greek club before the setback. Now back in full training ahead of the new season, Dessers told Belgian outlet BN DeStem that he is "working extremely hard to be in top shape this season. Giving it my all, scoring goals, winning matches, and lifting trophies." The 31-year-old's return could bolster Panathinaikos's attacking options and also give Super Eagles coach additional firepower ahead of upcoming World Cup qualifiers. With Dessers aiming to regain his scoring touch, will his renewed form help lift both his club and Nigeria's national team in the coming months?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/06/dessers-keen-to-shine-for-panatinakos-after-injury-layoff/