Kanoute may quit Mali after 'scary' experience

Tottenham striker Fredi Kanoute is considering his international future with Mali after surviving “the scariest experience of his career”.

The 27-year-old was threatened by his own supporters after Mali lost a World Cup qualifier 2-1 to Togo, ending their hopes of qualifying for next year’s tournament in Germany.

The match in the Malian capital Bamako had to be abandoned, with angry fans claiming they would “kill” Kanoute, who is now considering whether to retire from international football.

“I don’t know if I will play for Mali again. I have my family to think about,” he said.

There was concern yesterday for Kanoute’s safety when initial attempts to contact him failed, but he has now reported back safe and well and resumes training with Spurs today.

“I was very frightened. At no stage did I actually think I would die but it was a seriously dangerous situation for all of us,” he said.

“I’m just relieved to be back. It was a very scary experience, the worst I’ve had to deal with in my entire career. I don’t think I did anything to deserve being singled out. I had missed a couple of chances but those were made by me. I didn’t miss any easy opportunities to score.”