Yobo pulls out of Nigeria squad

Everton defender Joseph Yobo has withdrawn from the Nigeria squad to face Colombia next week due to injury.

The 28-year-old cited a niggling calf problem for his decision, but insists he has the full blessing of national team coach Shuaibu Amodu.

“I was hoping to go for the game but I got a calf injury against Bolton and didn’t train for about two days before our last game and it was coming back again after the game so I have been advised to rest it,” Yobo told www.kickoffnigeria.com.

“I called the coach and we spoke about it and he was very understanding. The club have sent a letter to the NFF.”

Meanwhile, Yobo’s Everton team-mate Yakubu Aiyegbeni has confirmed his availability for the game in Cali despite missing the 3-1 win over West Ham on Saturday.

He said: “I have not pulled out. I still plan to travel for the game. I missed our last game because of injury and if I am fit, I will go to Colombia.

“Right now, I am already training and I hope to be fit in time for the match, but I have not pulled out.”