Nigerian midfielder Frank Onyeka may be unavailable for Coventry City’s upcoming Championship fixtures as he prepares to welcome his child, manager Frank Lampard has confirmed.
The Coventry City loan signing from Brentford is yet to make his debut for the Sky Blues after joining during the January transfer window. His absence is linked to his wife’s imminent delivery, with Lampard describing the situation as fluid.
Lampard Backs Onyeka Over Family Commitment
Speaking ahead of Coventry’s crucial Championship clash, Lampard stressed that the club fully supports Onyeka during this important family moment.
“He’s trained with us for a few days. His wife is due to have a baby at any moment now, so we’re managing that situation as it stands. I hope he’ll be involved because we’re hoping for him, of course,” Lampard said.
While Coventry are keen to have the Nigeria international midfielder available, the manager made it clear that family comes first.
Onyeka Settling In After Brentford Move
The 27-year-old has already integrated into the squad and participated in several training sessions since completing his move from Brentford to Coventry City.
Onyeka joined Brentford from Danish giants FC Midtjylland in July 2021 in a deal worth approximately €10 million — a record signing for the Bees at the time and their first acquisition in the Premier League era.
Although he featured prominently during his debut campaign, Onyeka struggled for consistent playing time over the past two seasons, prompting his January loan switch to the Championship leaders.
Boost for Coventry’s Promotion Push
Coventry City currently sit top of the Championship table with 58 points, level with Middlesbrough but ahead on goal difference. With promotion to the Premier League firmly in sight, Onyeka’s arrival is seen as a major boost.
The midfielder is widely regarded for his:
Defensive discipline
High work rate and energy
Tactical versatility
Ball-winning ability
Lampard views Onyeka as a key figure capable of adding balance and stability to Coventry’s midfield during the intense promotion race.
The loan deal reportedly includes an obligation to buy if Coventry secure promotion, underlining the club’s long-term plans for the Nigerian star.
Onyeka Targets Premier League Return
Upon signing, Onyeka made his ambitions clear:
“I’m very happy to be here. I’m a strong midfielder, I’m a winner, and I always want to fight for my teammates.
My aim is to give 100 per cent, bring my experience and help the team get promoted to the Premier League and bring glory to the city again.”
Coventry’s next fixture is a high-stakes encounter against Middlesbrough on Monday, February 16, a match that could significantly impact the Championship promotion battle.
Whether Onyeka features may depend on family developments in the coming days.
