Okocha has just been named captain of Bolton

The Bolton midfielder has been under pressure to cut his international commitments after taking part in a number of friendly matches for his country recently.

The Super Eagles had lined up several matches ahead of the African Nations Cup in January.

They are due to play Japan in Tokyo on 20 August and only last week the Nigerian FA insisted that Okocha and his fellow England-based team mate Joseph Yobo of Everton be made available.

But despite being captain of the Super Eagles it appears Okocha has bowed to pressure from his club and agreed not to play for his country again until January.

"I have agreed I will play for them (The Super Eagles) in competitive matches," he told Bolton's in-house television channel.

I am not young any more and it would be beneficial to only play in the competitive games Jay-Jay Okocha

"I have made it clear to the Nigerian FA I will not be taking part in friendly matches.

"Playing for Bolton is important to me and I want to be successful here.

"I am Nigeria's captain so it's difficult because I know how important I am to the country.

"But I am not young any more and it would be beneficial to only play in the competitive games."

The Nigerian FA say they have not yet heard that from Okocha himself.

But General Secretary Taiwo Ogunjobi said the FA would not force him to play for his country.

The 30-year-old midfielder is expected to play a key role for Bolton in the Premiership this season after just being handed the captaincy.

"It's not only Okocha's footballing skills that got him the job as skipper.

"Jay-Jay speaks German, French and English, and even a bit of Turkish, and in our multi-cultural dressing room that is a huge advantage," Bolton boss Sam Allardyce said.

"It helps ensure there isn't a communication problem. He can explain anything to the foreign lads they might not understand."

Bolton begin their league campaign this weekend against Manchester United at Old Trafford.