Nigeria midfielder Frank Onyeka has been declared fit and available for Coventry City’s Premier League clash against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Coventry manager Frank Lampard confirmed the positive news during his pre-match press conference, ending concerns over the Nigerian midfielder’s availability for the daunting trip to Manchester.

Onyeka had missed Coventry’s last two competitive fixtures against Plymouth Argyle in the Carabao Cup and Hull City in the Premier League after suffering a hip problem.

Lampard, however, revealed that the 28-year-old has recovered and is now available for selection against the Premier League champions.

The development represents a major boost for Coventry, who will need their strongest squad available for what promises to be one of their toughest assignments of the season.

Onyeka joined Coventry after initially arriving on loan from Brentford and played an important role in the club’s promotion-winning campaign before his move was made permanent.

The Nigeria international made 14 Championship appearances during his loan spell, scoring once and providing an assist, before Coventry secured his services on a permanent basis.

His combative style, energy and ability to protect the defence have made him an important option in Lampard’s midfield, particularly as Coventry adjust to life in the Premier League.

The midfielder’s return also comes as welcome news for Nigeria, with the Super Eagles monitoring the fitness of key players ahead of their forthcoming international commitments.

Onyeka will now hope to feature against Manchester City as Coventry look to secure their first points of the Premier League campaign.

The Sky Blues face a difficult challenge at the Etihad, but Lampard’s confirmation that Onyeka is available gives the newly promoted side an important midfield option for the encounter.

For the Super Eagles, regular Premier League football and Onyeka’s return to fitness will also provide a positive boost ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming fixtures.