Udinese recall Asamoah from Angola

Udinese have formally demanded that Kwadwo Asamoah pulls out of the Africa Cup of Nations after yesterday’s terrorist attack.

The Togo bus was riddled by machine-gun fire as it entered Angola and the organisation responsible for the attack has threatened further reprisals.

Togo have now formally withdrawn from the tournament, while clubs all around Europe are recalling their players.

“We are calling Asamoah back first of all because we want to look out for the man before the player, plus obviously we are worried as a club,” explained director of sport Pasqualin.

Asamoah plays for Ghana and several nations are now wondering whether the tournament should go ahead in Angola.

“We think the best solution would be to suspend the competition, because there are and no doubt will be serious doubts over public safety,” continued the Udinese chief.

“I don’t want to imagine what would’ve happened if Emmanuel Adebayor had been sitting where the driver was positioned. There simply aren’t the conditions necessary to play.”

Initial reports stated that the driver of the Togo bus had been killed and three injured, but there are conflicting stories emerging from the Angola hospitals.

It is now suggested nine were injured including two players, an assistant manager, physio, goalkeeping coach and another member of staff.

Defender Serge Akakpo was hit by two bullets and lost a lot of blood, but his condition is said to have stabilised after surgery.

Reserve goalkeeper Kodjovi Obilale was also wounded, while others were seen with bandages after hospital treatment.

France 24 have unconfirmed reports this afternoon that there were three deaths in the attack – an assistant manager, a Press officer and an unnamed player.