Nigeria Federation Threatens Newcastle United, Millwall

Nigeria Football Federation has threatened to report Newcastle United and Millwall to football's governing body Fifa if they fail to release Shola Ameobi and Danny Shittu for the African Cup of Nations holding January 19 - February 10.

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has insisted that there is a clause in Ameobi's contract that he would not dump the club to attend the Nations Cup. On the other hand, Shittu could turn down a chance to play for the Eagles at Africa's premier soccer competition, according to Millwall manager Kenny Jackett.

Speaking to the BBC, Chairman Technical Committee of the Nigeria Federation, Chris Green said: ''These clubs are not only disrespecting Nigeria but Fifa and [African governing body] Caf as well. The rules are clear on international games approved by Fifa so we consider these comments 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 [of] why they exist,'' he added.

Nigeria are pitted in the same group with defending champions Zambia, Ethiopia and Burkina Faso.

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