Cameroonian midfielder Alex Song quits international football

The West Ham United midfielder Alex Song hung up his boots with Cameroon ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.

The 27-year-old has clarified the decision on his Instagram page.

Alex Song Since the World Cup in the summer and my subsequent exclusion from the Cameroon squad for the African Cup of Nations I have taken the decision to retire from International football. It is true that there were some discussions of late to include me in the squad for this tournament but I feel after a lot of careful thought and numerous discussions with my family this is the right decision. My love for my country will never change but I want to take time to focus purely on domestic football and start to rebuild my career at West Ham United. I wish Cameroon all the best and the team will always be in my heart.

A photo posted by 17alexsong @systemeTchakap (@17alexsong) on Jan 1, 2015 at 2:21pm PST

It means he will be available to play in the Premier League and FA Cup matches for the Hammers this month rather than participating in the African Cup of Nations.

Song has made 47 appearances for his country, representing them at two Africa Cups of Nations and two World Cups.

Cameroon have been drawn in Group D along with Ivory Coast, Guinea and Mali at the tournament, kicks off on January 17.