Melkam could make his debut for Nigeria in Harare

Oruma, who plays for French club Sochaux, has not been in a competitive game for the Super Eagles since the 2002 African Cup of Nations finals in Mali.

But former Arsenal striker Nwankwo Kanu, who joined newly promoted English Premiership club West Bromwich Albion, was not included.

"He's only just married and also has a new club and it's only fair he works for the club for now," coach Christian Chukwu told reporters on Tuesday.

Chukwu said Kanu will be included in the squad for their subsequent World Cup qualifier against Gabon in October.

Captain Jay-Jay Okocha and Obafemi Martins, who picked up a knee injury before Inter Milan's friendly against Bolton, were also included in the squad.

The 5 September tie could mark the debut of Hansa Rostock defender Gabriel Melkam, who narrowly missed out on a place in Nigeria's 2004 Cup of Nations squad.

Chukwu said the squad will assemble in London on 31 August for the trip to Harare.

Nigeria, with six points, lead Zimbabwe, who have five points, in a group which also includes Angola, Rwanda, Algeria and Gabon.

Only the top team will qualify for the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany.

Squad