Nicolas Anelka has turned down the opportunity to resume his international career, by telling French coach Jacquues Santini that he did not feel wanted.

The Manchester City striker was added to the squad by coach Jacques Santini for Wednesday’s friendly with Yugoslavia when Lyon’s Sidney Govou pulled out with injury.

However, Anelka said he did not believe Santini really wanted him in the squad.

‘I met the coach last week when we played Manchester United and I was not convinced by what he said,’ Anelka told L’Equipe.

‘The coach asked me to show that I wanted to wear the France team shirt. I tried to do so until today.

‘I currently do not sense people truly want to pick me,

‘On his side, it showed that he did not want to give me my chance,’ he said.

‘I hope that my absence is only temporary.

‘I want to return one day, but nobody has tried to speak to me.

‘I’ve always been proud to wear the France shirt in the past and I’ve always given my all for Les Bleus.’

Anelka, a member of the France squad who won Euro 2000, last played for his country in April and his rejection of Santini’s overtures, could spell the end of his international career.