Former  Nigeria  International, Austin Jay Jay Okocha, has attributed his decision to retire early from active football to lack of enough playing time.

Okocha who dazzled the footballing world with his sizzling skills and breathtaking performances made the shock decision to leave the game in 2008. According to the Olympic Gold medalist, reduced minutes on the pitch of play triggered his exile from the round leather game, at the age of 34.

“I must confess that not getting a lot of playing time was the main reason why I retired from playing at a very young age,” Okocha told media men at a press conference organised by Star Times. “I believe that it is not worth it to train from Monday to Friday just to have 20 minutes on the pitch or sit on the bench on Saturday. I am very competitive.”

The midfielder who last represented Nigeria in 2006, appeared for the Super Eagles 75 times with 14 goals to his name.

Source: Vanguard