9th January, 2013
Nigeria defender, Danny Shittu has finally broken his silence on why he turned down a chance to be part of the 2013 AFCON in South Africa.
Shittu, 32, was named in Nigeria’s provisional squad for the Africa Cup of Nations by head coach, Stephen Keshi.
But the Millwall centre-back rejected the offer and has now explained the rationale behind his decision in an official statement released by QSM Limited on Monday.
“I’m honoured to have been called up for the Super Eagles squad but I am disappointed to say that the timing for me this year is unfortunate as I have a lot of personal commitments which would make it hard for me to give my ALL to the National Team as you know whenever I wear the Super Eagles jersey, I always give 100%.
“My heart will always be with the Super Eagles and I wish my team mates all the best in the coming Nations Cup tournament,” rounded off Shittu in his statement.
Millwall manager, Kenny Jackett, had first made a statement saying that Shittu will reject Nigeria’s call to be part of their pre-Afcon plans.
“I don’t think he’s going to go and I don’t think he’s been in touch with them. At the moment that’s the decision.
“It was a surprise but it shows how well Danny has done. He’s only in the preliminary squad so that’s going to be cut down.
“But congratulations to him because he’s in there based on his performances,” Jackett had said.
The AFCON will hold between January 19 and February 10 with Nigeria’s Super Eagles starting off their campaign against Burkina Faso on January 21.