The latest FIFA rating has Super Eagles of Nigeria at 70th position in the world and according to experts, Nigeria players will be hardest hit should the team fall outside this ranking as one of the rules states work permit will only be considered for non-European players whose countries are within the top 70 in the world.

If the Eagles fall beyond 70, Nigerian stars will be barred from securing a work permit to play in England.

 "If they (Nigeria) slip one more place, its players can’t play in England,” said African football expert Tunde Adelakun.

"Work permit laws for non-European players say the player’s country has to be in top 70 in the world."

An immediate casualty of this could be Nigeria U-20 skipper Kelechi Nwakali, who is set to soon sign a professional contract with Arsenal.

Nigeria international Umar Aminu of Turkish club Osmanlispor has also been linked with Premier League side Hull City, while Belgium-based Wilfred Ndidi has been mentioned to join Watford.