Yaya Toure opts out of Ivory Coast squad, future unclear

Published August 29, 2015

ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast (AP) Yaya Toure asked not to be included in Ivory Coast's squad for its first 2017 African Cup of Nations qualifier and coach Michel Dussuyer says the midfielder is in a ''period of reflection'' over his international career.

Dussuyer met with Toure in London recently over his future with the national team and said in comments published by the Ivorian federation: ''I hope he will continue his adventure'' with Ivory Coast.

''I told him that I was counting on him. He is a great player and is the captain of the team,'' Dussuyer said.

Now 32, Toure led Ivory Coast to its first continental title in 25 years in February, his first international trophy. He said in March he was considering whether or not to continue his international career.

Ivory Coast opens its qualifying campaign for 2017 against Sierra Leone next weekend.

Dussuyer also left Cheick Tiote, Siaka Tiene and Lacina Traore out of his 23-man squad, his first since taking over from African Cup-winning coach Herve Renard.

Newcastle midfielder Tiote was not included because Ivory Coast team management could not contact him, Dussuyer said.

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