Albion back-up defender Leon Balogun faces another summer without a break after helping Nigeria qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations.

The Super Eagles secured their spot with a 1-1 draw against South Africa at the weekend.

Balogun played but has returned to Albion for treatment on a slight knock which has ruled him out of tomorrow's home friendly against Uganda.

Balogun was busy this summer with Nigeria at the World Cup before linking up with Albion following his move from Mainz in Germany.

He was signed as cover and competition for Lewis Dunk and Shane Duffy after the departures of Connor Goldson to Glasgow Rangers and Uwe Huenemeier back to Paderborn.

Balogun has not featured since deputising for the injured Dunk against Manchester United and Liverpool in August.

The Africa Cup of Nations, previously staged in winter, takes place next year from June 15 to July 13 in Cameroon.

Albion midfielder Yves Bissouma's Mali have also qualified thanks to a 1-0 victory over Gabon.

Bissouma missed the match due to paperwork issues.

The Argus: Albion left-back Gaetan Bong (above) could also be involved in the Africa Cup of Nations finals with Cameroon, who qualify as hosts.

Bong will captain Cameroon when they play Brazil in a friendly at MK Dons tomorrow night (7.30pm) after losing 2-0 in Morocco on Friday.