Emmanuel Adebayor (Captain) from Togo. (Photo by Manus van Dyk / Gallo Images)
Over the years, reports have emerged that overseas clubs talk African stars into refusing to represent their national teams in the Afcon because the cup of nations falls at a crucial time when European teams are battling for the league title.
The former Real Madrid forward has been without a club since he was released from Crystal Palace at the end of last season.
“I rejected the contract offer from Lyon to be able to represent my country. They asked me if I counted on going to the cup of nations, and I said yes, I have to go and represent my country,” said Adebayor.
Liverpool defender Joel Matip was prohibited from playing for the Reds by Fifa after he refused to play for Cameroon after he was selected for the Indomitable Lions’ preliminary squad.