DAVID MOYES could be heading for a collision course with the Nigerian FA over the release of Joseph Yobo for the African Nations Cup.

The Everton defender missed Saturday's FA Cup third round draw at Millwall after succumbing to a shoulder injury that was both-ering him over the festive period.

There is now no chance of Yobo meeting the Nigerian FA's deadline today for linking up with the squad as he faces further treat-ment on the damage.

And that could place Moyes in an awkward position as the Africans had already extended the deadline to allow the likes of Yobo and Bolton Wanderers' Jay-Jay Okocha to play in the weekend's FA Cup.

"He (Yobo) had treatment on Saturday and is due more treat-ment," said Moyes..

"I can't see him being with the Nigerians by the beginning of the week, although you can never be sure what they will decide."

The Nigerians could demand Yobo be immediately released for their training camp ahead of the month-long tournament, with their first game being played on January 23.

However, Moyes would prefer the player to remain on Merseyside while he recovers from the injury and has consistently said that he does not have a date by which Yobo will depart for the competition.

Everton want the centre-back to play in next weekend's game at Portsmouth, and the player has said he wants to stay at Goodison for as long as possible.

But the encouraging return from injury of Matteo Ferrari may eventually persuade Everton to release Yobo when fully fit.

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