Amokachi won the Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria in 1994

Amokachi, who won the Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria in 1994 told BBC World Service: "Football is a business, players are scared of getting injuries.

"That's what killed the last Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt - expectations were high but the football level was low."

Over 40 players based in England are playing in the tournament in Ghana.

606: DEBATE Is Amokachi right?

Nigeria have a host of stars on show with Portsmouth's Kanu, Aiyegbeni Yakubu and Joseph Yobo, of Everton, Chelsea's Jon Mikel Obi and Newcastle's Obafemi Martins all playing in their opening match defeat to Ivory Coast.

Meanwhile the Elephants' team includes Chelsea's Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou, Arsenal's Kolo Toure and his brother Yaya, who plays for Barcelona, as well as Tottenham's Didier Zokora.

Despite his reservations, Amokachi - who played in England for Everton - still thinks playing at a reduced level will be enough for Nigeria to make the final.

"If they can give us 65-70% of what they give to their clubs then they will probably finish in the first two," he said.

"We do have some defensive lapses but when it comes to the overall team our midfield and attack is where our strong point is."