Leeds United winger Noah Okafor has told Switzerland he will not play international football again under boss Murat Yakin.
The 26-year-old was part of the Swiss World Cup squad but played just once – as a late substitute in the round-of-32 win over Algeria. The World Cup call-up came after four goals in his final four games of the season for Leeds.
In March, he ended a 16-month exile from the Switzerland squad after a meeting with Yakin, who he had previously criticised – along with Swiss bosses – for failing to communicate with him while he was not being selected
In a statement on Instagram, Okafor said he has decided to step away from the international arena.
‘Dear fans, these lines are the hardest I have written in my career so far. After careful consideration, I have decided to step down from the Swiss national team until further notice.
That is exactly why I travelled to the World Cup with a good feeling, full of motivation, and with the firm will to give everything for the team and for Switzerland.
‘All the more disappointing for me was what I experienced there. Not because I played little, but because of the way I was treated. For me, it was the most difficult time of my career so far.
Okafor emphasised that he was not concerned about his lack of minutes but alluded to a lack of ‘mutual respect’ and ‘trust’ from Yakin.
‘One thing up front: I know that some will think again now: “Oh, Okafor again, he’s just offended because he hardly played”,’ his statement continued.
But again: My decision has nothing to do with my playing minutes. I travelled to the tournament to support my team in the best possible way. On the pitch and off it.
‘Things happened that hit me deeply. Trust was broken. Promises were not kept. And when I was allowed to play against Algeria, even small mistakes far away from our goal were reacted to in a way that hit me deeply.
‘In the weeks after that, I thought a lot and decided for myself that I no longer want to play for the national team under the current coach. Murat Yakin is doing a great job and has achieved historic things with Switzerland.
‘The success proves him and his work right. And of course, I don’t want any special treatment from him. Only mutual respect and trust, but I do not see this foundation for the coming years.
‘I sincerely wish the team only the best. I am happy about every success of the team and think that we achieved great things at the World Cup. Many of my teammates are friends, and I will continue to root for them and support them.
‘I am grateful to Switzerland for everything I was able to experience. Playing for this country was and remains something very special. Believe me: Whenever I was on the pitch, I left my heart out there for this jersey. See you soon, Noah.’
The Swiss FA confirmed the news, saying in a statement: ‘Noah personally informed us today that he will no longer be playing for the national team for the time being. We respect his decision and wish him good luck and success with his club.’