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Osaze Talks Retirement From Nigerian National Team

Osaze looks set to follow the footsteps of former captain Joseph Yobo and coach Stephen Keshi

Nigeria and Stoke City forward Osaze Odemwingie is talking about his place in the national team after the World Cup campaign with the team and is considering retiring from international duties.

Osaze disclosed in an interview with BBC sport that the game against France in the last 16 could be his last for Nigeria.

"Sometimes you just feel like you've come a circle and I don't know whether I'll play on for Nigeria,"

"I am committed to the country's cause. Right now I'm not too sure. It might be but it might not.

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"You need to be honest with yourself and your country. There are few people I need to talk to because I can't be selfish.

"Nigeria has always meant everything to me. Despite everything I've been through, wearing the national colours has definitely been one the highlights of my career."

Osaze debuted for Nigeria in a friendly against Kenya in 2002 and since has been a core member of the Nigerian national team.

Before the World Cup, the player was in a talk of controversial ramblings with the chief coach Stephen Keshi after been left out of the 2013 team that win the Nations Cup in South Africa.

He later apologized and was forgiven, then he joined the train to Brazil, scoring Nigeria’s first goal at the 2014 tournament against Bosnia and subsequently handing the Afucan champions their first victory since France 98.

"I'm imperfect and I've learned so much playing international football.

"There are many young players coming through now and you can only pass on your experience.

"It's not a decision I will rush into but then, you need to make an honest one.

"But we shall see in the next couple of weeks."

In the aftermath of the loss to France at the last 16, the team captain Joseph Yobo retired, the chief coach hinted resignation and now the Stoke City forward could follow in their shoes.

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