 Kanu has called NFA officials |
Nwankwo Kanu is a major doubt for Nigeria's friendly matches against Jamaica and the Republic of Ireland in London later this month. Nigerian Football Association (NFA) officials said that the Arsenal striker has called them and asked to be left out of the squad.
The matches will serve as warm-ups ahead of the Nigeria's World Cup qualifier at home to Rwanda on 5 June.
"Kanu has called to say he will not be available but we're still waiting for a formal notice from his club to that effect," said an NFA spokesman in Lagos.
The Super Eagles take on the Republic of Ireland on 26 May and play Jamaica three days later.
Both matches will be staged at The Valley - home ground of English Premiership side Charlton Athletic.
Several players including Portsmouth striker Yakubu Ayegbeni, Ukraine-based Julius Aghahowa and Hansa Rostock defender Gabriel Melkam have also pulled out of the London matches.
Fresh call-ups have included Chelsea defender Celestine Babayaro, Benedict Akwuegbu, Rabiu Baita and Tosin Dosunmu.
MMIX
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