Okocha will not play against Japan

Nigeria have conceded defeat in their club-versus-country battle with English Premiership side Bolton after being snubbed by Austin 'Jay-Jay' Okocha.

The Super Eagles captain this week enraged Nigerian Football Association (NFA) officials by turning down an invitation to play in a friendly against Japan next week.

But Taiwo Ogunjobi, the NFA's chief executive, has said they will now turn to other players rather than escalate their row with Bolton.

"We would have loved to have him in this game as we continue our preparations for the African Nations Cup.

"He has asked to be left out because of club commitments and we will not force him to play for his country," said Ogunjobi.

"We, however, hope that he will honour our subsequent invitations as he's still our captain."

We will not force him to play for his country Taiwo Ogunjobi

Ogunjobi said Haruna Babangida from Spanish giants Barcelona will now replace Okocha, who was also appointed Bolton skipper on Thursday.

Two other England-based players, Joseph Yobo of Everton and Isaac Okoronkwo from Wolves, will also not be travelling to Tokyo.

They have been replaced by Efetobore Sodje and Ejike Uzugha, who plays in Germany.

Over the years the NFA have clashed with top English clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea over the release of stars like Nwankwo Kanu and Celestine Babayaro.