Shola Ameobi not going to African Cup of Nations

Newcastle United striker Shola Ameobi will not be part of the Nigeria squad that will compete in January's Africa Cup of Nations.

The former England youth international had been included in Stephen Keshi's provisional squad for the tournament.

However, Newcastle manager Alan Pardew is adamant that he will not allow the 31-year-old to leave.

"Shola won't be going. The national team manager knows the reasons, which I am keeping to myself," Pardew told reporters.

Ameobi has made one appearance for the Nigerian national team.