Head coach of the Nigerian national team, Stephen Keshi does not want to be dragged into a war of words with striker, Emmanuel Emenike after the Spartak Moscow star publicly criticised him.
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Emenike finished as top scorer at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations but failed to play in the showpiece game at the tournament because of a hamstring injury he suffered in the Super Eagles' semifinal game against Mali.
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The former Fenerbahce striker has now hit out at Keshi and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over perceived ill-treatment following his injury.
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"I do not expect to be pampered like a baby but you get the feeling some people only care about themselves," Emenike said.
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The 25-year-old then singled out head coach, Keshi for specific criticism for "letting him down."
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"The coach has really let me down to be honest. He (Stephen Keshi) never even bothered to check up on me since the injury in South Africa.
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"Just a call is all it takes, instead my club have been very supportive for over a month. They have shown they value my fitness and overall health.
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"Even the Nigerian officials (NFF) refused to find out information concerning my state of health. It's a big shame and a complete sign of neglect on their part," Emenike complained.
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Keshi, however, has refused to respond to Emenike's accusations stating that he would "not exchange words" with one of his charges.
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"If that is what Emenike said, then so be it. I don't have a comment. I am not ready to exchange words with one of my players," Keshi said.
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Keshi is currently preparing the Nigerian team for a crucial 2014 Fifa World Cup qualifying game against Kenya on March 23.
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Emenike was left out of the squad as he is yet to return to action following the injury he copped at the 2013 Afcon.
Keshi should have reacted better to his injury. The matter must have really gotten to Emenike thats why he is hurt .