**Togo Coach Tom Saintfiet Addresses Emmanuel Adebayor’s Absence and Future**
Following Togo’s victory over Djibouti in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2017 qualifiers, head coach Tom Saintfiet spoke candidly about Emmanuel Adebayor’s continued absence from the national team.
At a press conference, Saintfiet explained that the former Arsenal striker had been called up but failed to respond. “Like all the other players, Shéyi Adebayor received a call-up. But he didn’t respond. We can’t work with a player who doesn’t respond to call-ups,” the Belgian coach stated.
Saintfiet suggested that Adebayor may not be fully committed to the national team’s ambitions. “I think Adebayor doesn’t like playing for his country. He doesn’t like the idea of Togo qualifying for the CAN. If we have respect for the Togolese, we must respond to the call-ups for the national team.”
Acknowledging the striker’s current club situation, Saintfiet added, “I also believe that if he wasn’t there, it’s because he has enough problems to deal with at the moment, especially at his club where he hasn’t been able to sign elsewhere.”
Despite the criticism, the coach maintained a professional tone, stating, “I have no problems with Adebayor. He knows what he has to do to get back into the team.”
In a more recent interview with the BBC, Saintfiet softened his stance and extended an olive branch to the former Tottenham star. “I’m here and if he’s ready to have a discussion, he’s always welcome. Let’s hope he feels the need to help the team.”
Highlighting Adebayor’s importance, the coach said, “Emmanuel is the best striker in the history of Togo and one of the best African strikers in history. We may not be able to replace him with a player of the same quality at the moment.”
Saintfiet also emphasized inclusivity, declaring, “Anyone with a Togolese passport, who wants to help us qualify for the CAN and win and who follows the rules of the Federation is welcome to play for the national team.”
Adebayor’s absence continues to be a contentious issue for Togo fans and officials alike, but the door remains open for his return should circumstances change.
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