 Jay-Jay Okocha said he wanted a break from playing for Nigeria |
Nigeria's Jay-Jay Okocha has said that he did not play in Sunday's 2006 World Cup game against Angola because he wanted a break. Without their captain the Super Eagles crashed to a 1-0 defeat to Angola in Luanda.
"I'm sorry our team lost but I've made it clear I want a break and can't be playing every game," Okocha said.
"I'm not a machine and I need some rest.
"People should consider it's been a long, busy season playing for my club - Bolton Wanderers."
Okocha's agent said last Thursday that the midfielder was not available to play against Angola because he could not get a flight to Luanda.
Okocha missed a friendly triangular with Jamaica and the Republic of Ireland in London earlier this month because he wanted a rest.
He was subsequently not considered for Nigeria's first 2006 World Cup qualifier against Rwanda earlier this month.
Nigeria, without several key players, lost to an 85th minute goal from Akwa that put Angola top of African zone group four with four points from two games.
Nigeria sit second with three points thanks to their win over Rwanda and their next game is at home to Algeria.
MMIX
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