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Newcastle striker Obafemi Martins has apologised for missing Nigeria’s 4-1 defeat by Ghana on 6 February.

Martins was released to play by his club but returned to Nigeria to look after his sick mother instead.

“I apologise to the Nigeria FA and the players because it was a very important game,” he told BBC Sport. “But I also believe my mum was more important.”

The Nigeria FA have threatened to suspend Martins from playing for the national team.

Martins says that he will be available to play for Nigeria in the future.

“When I am called upon I will play for them, because you have to respect the national team,” he said.

“I do respect the Super Eagles a lot, so anytime they call I will come and play.”


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