Nwankwo Kanu gets go-ahead for his African all-star charity game

The game, which is shaping-up as a match of African all-stars, will take place at the club's home ground of Fratton Park on 20 May.

Arsenal's Kolo Toure (Ivory Coast) and Emmanuel Adebayor (Togo) will join Chelsea's Ghana midfielder Michael Essien and Super Eagle Mikel Jon Obi on the pitch to raise funds for The Nwankwo Kanu Heart Foundation.

Other English-based Nigerians including Newcastle United striker Obafemi Martins, former Bolton Wanderers midfielder Jay-Jay Okocha and Middlesbrough striker Yakubu could line-up in a 'Friends of Kanu' side.

Senegal's Amady Faye (Charlton) and Diomansy Kamara (West Brom) are also expected to take part.

'Cardiac problems'

Kanu has beeen a keen fundraiser ever since he needed life-saving heart surgery in 1996, after a routine medical examination, during his transfer from Inter Milan to Ajax, revealed cardiac problems.

The Nigerian marksman set up the charity as a result to provide funds for sick children, with similar ailments in Africa.

The offer to host the game could be seen as move by Portsmouth to smooth a renewal of Kanu's contract.

Kanu has been adamant that he will not sign for anything less than a new two-year deal while the club so far have only offered a 12-month extension.

The 30-year-old striker has scored 12 goals in the English premiership so far this season.

Portsmouth are hopeful they can now persuade Kanu to sign with a one-year offer with an option to sign an extension provided he plays a minimum of 25 games next season.