Shola Could Be Punished By Fifa Just Like Cisse

By Tyne-Talk
December 26 2012

Nigerian Football Federation board member Chris Green has told the BBC that Millwall and Newcastle United need to understand the rules and are being 'totally disrespectful' by suggesting their players Danny Shittu and Shola Ameobi will not be released for the African Cup of Nations. Newcastle manager Alan Pardew said earlier this week that the Nigerian manager knew why his player would not be going to the cup. This however has been dispured by the NFF.

Green told the BBC;

"These clubs are not only disrespecting Nigeria but FIFA and CAF (Confederation of African Football) as well.

The rules are clear on international games approved by FIFA so we consider these comments (by Newcastle and Millwall) as not only ridiculous but totally disrespectful.

We know the rules. FIFA has made it clear that these clubs will not be able to use these players for the duration of the Nations Cup plus an additional five days.

We will further push for additional sanctions - we understand these clubs employ our players but they are also international footballers.

Rules are rules. Newcastle and Millwall must understand the basics why they exist."

Newcastle were punished by FIFA just a few months ago when Senegal reported the club for Papiss Cisse's absence on International duty. Cisse was given a 5 day suspension which meant he missed 1 Premier League game after telling the National team he was injured, a claim they failed to believe.

The same could happen to Shola if Nigeria pursue their complaint.