Inter Milan’s teenage striker Obafemi Martins on Friday claimed he is not mature enough to represent Nigeria at the African Nations Cup and that was why he opted out of the tournament.
”Martins has formally written to the Nigerian Football Association [NFA] saying he does not believe he is ready at this time to play for the country,” NFA spokesperson Samuel Kaalu said on Friday.
”He said the Nations Cup in Tunisia was a tough and important commitment which at this point in his career he feels he cannot take up as he is still developing at his club.”
Last month, the 19-year-old Martins was called up for Nigeria’s training camp in Portugal but eventually turned down the chance to win his first cap at any level for his native country.
His refusal to be part of the team to Tunisia has angered many back home, including NFA boss Ibrahim Galadima, who described as ”embarrassing” Martins’ decision even after the player reportedly gave his word to visiting top officials that he will be in Tunisia.
The African Nations Cup gets under way in Tunisia on January 24. — Sapa-AFP