Eric Djemba-Djemba Wants African Cup Change

By Chris O'Brien
March 24 2004

Eric Djemba-Djemba hopes that FIFA will change the timing of the African Nations Cup following controversy surrounding many players representing their country in the recent tournament. The Manchester United midfielder missed several United game whilst representing Cameroon.

Manchester United midfielder Eric Djemba-Djemba believes that playing the African Nations Cup during the European domestic calendar is a mistake, and hopes that the controversy surrounding many players representing their country during the recent tournament will prompt FIFA to change their minds.

The former Nantes player who joined United during pre-season was illegible for a number of Red Devils matches due to him playing for Cameroon in the African Nations Cup. Sir Alex Ferguson didn't really kick up a fuss about losing Djemba-Djemba, but many Premiership managers were desperate to hold on their players and fall-outs between players and managers were caused due to the timing of the tournament.

"FIFA should have a long hard look at playing it at the same time as the European championships." said Djemba-Djemba.

"It would make a lot more sense if everyone agreed to play in the summer. It always creates problems for players here in Europe. It's not a good situation. I really think it should be given some thought."