Nigeria's Jay-Jay Okocha at the centre of club versus country row

The Super Eagles want Okocha, and the rest of the squad, to begin their preparations on 19 December, more than a month before the Nations Cup kick-off on 24 January in Tunisia.

Allardyce however has ordered the rules to be checked to see when Bolton have to release the player.

"I have asked our club secretary to look into the situation and see what the rules are.

"Otherwise we will be without him for a four-week warm-up period, the tournament itself and there is always the chance that he can return carrying an injury as well," he said.

Allardyce went on to point out that the Nigerian request won't just affect Bolton.

"We are not the only club in this predicament - it will affect the likes of Arsenal who have African players too - and it is extremely isappointing for us.

"It could be costly - it could even be devastating.

"We have not been able to contact the Nigerian FA - as usual. It's hard enough getting hold of Jay-Jay himself - and he's our player!"

Nigeria don't open their Nations Cup campaign until 27 January when they take on Morocco in Monastir.

The Super Eagles have been drawn in Group D alongside Morocco, South Africa and debutants Benin.

The final of the 2004 Nations Cup will take place on 14 February.