Abu Azeez has confirmed his retirement from international beach football with Nigeria.
The Enyimba forward called time on his spell with Adamu Ejor’s side after playing over 50 times in a career spanning seven years and included appearances at the 2009 Fifa Beach Soccer World Cup in Dubai, two Caf Beach Soccer Championship and five Copa Lagos Championships.
Azeez admits he now wants to focus solely on ‘regular’ football and face club commitments with the People’s Elephants in the Nigeria Professional Football League, Federation Cup and the Caf Champions League.
“I have decided to quit beach football and I have no regrets over the decision,” Azeez said.
“I have enjoyed playing for my country and going to the 2009 Fifa Beach Soccer World Cup and two Caf Beach Soccer Championships in Morocco and Seychelles plus five Copa Lagos championships means a great deal to me.
“I wish Nigeria success in the future and I hope they do win at the 2016 Caf Beach Soccer Championships as hosts.
Nigeria has been chosen by Confederation of African Football to host the 2016 Africa Beach Soccer Cup of Nations.
The competition billed to be hosted in Lagos in December will serve as the qualifying tournament for the 2017 Fifa Beach Soccer World Cup to be staged in The Bahamas.