Sports - Nigeria Football Federation Threatens Newcastle And Millwall
The Nigeria Football Federation has threatened to report two English clubs to Fifa if they do not release their players for the Africa Cup o...
http://www.africaeagle.com/2012/12/sports-nigeria-football-federation.html
The Nigeria Football Federation has threatened to report two English clubs to Fifa if they do not release their players for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew says Shola Ameobi will not be going to the 19 January-10 February tournament.
And Millwall boss Kenny Jackett expects Danny Shittu to turn down Nigeria.
"These clubs are not only disrespecting Nigeria but Fifa and Caf as well," NFF board member Chris Green told reporters.
"The rules are clear on international games approved by Fifa so we consider these comments as not only ridiculous but totally disrespectful."
Green has made it clear that the NFF will apply for the full weight of Fifa sanctions on both clubs if they do not release their respective players.
"We know the rules. Fifa has made it clear that these clubs will not be able to use these players for the duration of the Nations Cup plus an additional five days," he added.
"We will further push for additional sanctions - we understand these clubs employ our players but they are also international footballers.
"Rules are rules. Newcastle and Millwall must understand the basics why they exist."
Former England Under-21 international Shola Ameobi had been named by Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi in his provisional squad.
But Pardew said: "Shola won't be going. The national team manager knows the reasons, which I am keeping to myself."
Pardew's comments come despite Ameobi himself saying that he would be keen to play for the Super Eagles if picked.
Danny Shittu is expected to reject the opportunity to play for Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations next month, according to Millwall boss Jackett.
"I don't think he's going to go and I don't think he's been in touch with them. At the moment that's the decision," Jackett said.
"It was a surprise but it shows how well Danny has done. He's only in the preliminary squad so that's going to be cut down."
Nigeria will take on African champions Zambia, Ethiopia and Burkina Faso in Group C.
And Millwall boss Kenny Jackett expects Danny Shittu to turn down Nigeria.
"These clubs are not only disrespecting Nigeria but Fifa and Caf as well," NFF board member Chris Green told reporters.
"The rules are clear on international games approved by Fifa so we consider these comments as not only ridiculous but totally disrespectful."
Green has made it clear that the NFF will apply for the full weight of Fifa sanctions on both clubs if they do not release their respective players.
"We know the rules. Fifa has made it clear that these clubs will not be able to use these players for the duration of the Nations Cup plus an additional five days," he added.
"We will further push for additional sanctions - we understand these clubs employ our players but they are also international footballers.
"Rules are rules. Newcastle and Millwall must understand the basics why they exist."
Former England Under-21 international Shola Ameobi had been named by Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi in his provisional squad.
But Pardew said: "Shola won't be going. The national team manager knows the reasons, which I am keeping to myself."
Pardew's comments come despite Ameobi himself saying that he would be keen to play for the Super Eagles if picked.
Danny Shittu is expected to reject the opportunity to play for Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations next month, according to Millwall boss Jackett.
"I don't think he's going to go and I don't think he's been in touch with them. At the moment that's the decision," Jackett said.
"It was a surprise but it shows how well Danny has done. He's only in the preliminary squad so that's going to be cut down."
Nigeria will take on African champions Zambia, Ethiopia and Burkina Faso in Group C.
