Nikola Kalinic Sent Home for refusing to play against Nigeria

Nikola Kalinic has been reportedly been sent home from Croatia’s World Cup squad following the refusal of the Milan striker to come on against Nigeria.

Croatia defeated Nigeria in a 2018 World Cup Group D match and won by 2-0 on Saturday night, thanks to an own goal conceded by Etobo and a Luka Modric penalty.

According to 24sata, the Coach had told Kalinic to come on for Mario Mandzukic with five minutes remaining, but the striker refused, claiming he had a back problem.

Juventus winger Marko Pjaca came on in his place, and the website is reporting that Kalinic will be sent home today.

A Press conference has been slated for 16.15, where it is expected to be officially confirmed.

This article was most recently revised and updated 3 years ago

Greg is a Sports content writer. He has many years of experience in Sports Writing. He was a writer for Opera News and is Editor-in-Chief at GoalBall.