Al Ain have received a boost after on-loan striker Emmanuel Emenike announced his retirement from Nigeria duty.

Emenike, 28, had been heavily criticised after not scoring for the Super Eagles since 2013. 

He finishes with nine goals in 37 appearances.

“It was not an easy decision,” Emenike told BBC Sport, after earlier revealing his decision on Instagram.

“I didn’t think my international career would come to a sudden end, but that is life.

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“Sometimes it’s better to remove yourself from an environment that doesn’t suit you mentally and physically. 

“This is what I have done.”

He added: “I also felt it was important that people hear directly from me to avoid a funny twist to the story. I wish to thank the coaches who gave me a chance, fellow players and in particular big thanks to all my fans for their unconditional support.”

Emenike is on a season-long loan from Fenerbahce. He has scored five goals in six matches for the Boss.

Emenike is the second player to announce his retirement from Nigeria’s senior squad this month, following Lille goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama.