Jay-Jay Okocha insists he will play for Nigeria in the African Nations Cup in January ignoring a plea from Bolton boss Sam Allardyce to stay in England. Okocha could be away for about five weeks and will miss the Carling Cup semi-final against Aston Villa.
The Nigerian said: "The African Nations Cup is massive for us. It doesn't really get the publicity it should.
"It is like playing in the European Championships. I am going late to the training camp. I can't do much more."
As Bolton prepare to face leader Arsenal, Okocha revealed the team has never felt confident.
"This squad is possibly stronger than it has ever been," said Okocha.
"We are growing in confidence game by game and our qualities are coming through.
"When we relax, we play good football and show the good things we can do.
"In football, you always have a chance and though Arsenal will be a very difficult game for us, we have nothing to lose."
MMIX
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
