Spurs want to delay Kanoute's departure to Tunisia

Kanoute has played for France at Under-21 level but Fifa revealed that he will be allowed to play for the country of his parents' birth.

Spurs were stunned by Kanoute's decision to play in the tournament, which begins on 24 January.

However, assistant boss Chris Hughton admitted on Wednesday the club were resigned to losing him.

Tottenham have already asked whether Kanoute, the team's top scorer this season, can join the Mali squad after the Premiership match against Liverpool on 17 January.

A club spokesman said: "We have written to Fifa asking them that if Frederic gets the OK, we would appreciate their help in terms of relaxing that release period."

I dont see a major issue with Kanoute going for a month, we just work harder, simple. From Ronnie Real Have your say on 606

Fifa rules state that clubs must release players at least 14 days ahead of an international tournament.

Spurs could lose Kanoute for three Premiership games and both the fourth and fifth rounds of the FA Cup if they progress.

Fifa also ruled on Wednesday that Leeds United's Lamine Sakho and Mohamed Sissoko of Valencia can play for Mali and Senegal respectively.

And Fifa president Sepp Blatter has warned Premiership clubs to stop obstructing their African players from playing in the African Nations Cup.

"Club managers and coaches would be well-advised not only to observe international rules, but to stop trying to obstruct legitimate players' rights," he said.

"The Kanoute decision has proved controversial to say the least but it should not be. Premiership clubs have benefited greatly not only from the skills of African players but also economically.

"It cannot be acceptable to recruit such stars and then demand that they should disrespect their own countries if a tournament or international fixtures clash with Premiership matches."