Alex Song retires from international duty

Alex Song has announced his retirement from international duty with Cameroon, ruling himself out of the Africa Cup of Nations.

The West Ham United midfielder, on loan from Spanish giants Barcelona, was initially left out of the Indomitable Lions' squad for the tournament, which begins later this month.

However, reports suggested that head coach Volker Finke was considering recalling the 27-year-old, who is understood to have travelled to Cameroon to talk to federation officials.

Song has decided against joining up with his country, though, as he looks to help the Hammers clinch a European berth following a bright start to the campaign.

The former Arsenal man had been snubbed by Finke since his red card during the World Cup match against Croatia last year.

"Since the World Cup in the summer and my subsequent exclusion from the Cameroon squad for the Africa Cup of Nations I have taken the decision to retire from international football," Song said in a statement.

"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."

Song, who made 47 appearances for his country, has been named in the Africa Cup of Nations Best XI twice and helped Cameroon to second place in the tournament in 2008.