JAY-JAY Okocha has admitted that his punishing schedule for club and country has finally taken its toll.
The Wanderers skipper missed his fourth successive international at the weekend as Nigeria lost a combined World Cup-African Nations Cup qualifier against Angola, explaining that he needed a break from football.
'I'm sorry our team lost," Okocha said, "but I've made it clear I want a break and can't be playing every game.
"I'm not a machine and I need some rest. People should consider it's been a long, busy season playing for my club."
Okocha was dropped for Nigeria's opening World Cup qualifier against Rwanda earlier this month after failing to turn up for two friendlies in London. Sunday's defeat put Angola top of African zone group four with four points from two games. Nigeria sit second with three points.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article