Portsmouth striker Nwankwo Kanu remains a candidate to takeover the coaching reigns of Nigeria.

A disappointing showing at the African Cup of Nations has increased pressure on Berti Vogts, the Nigeria manager, and Kanu is among the favourites to succeed him in the role, says The Times.

Kanu signed a new contract last summer with the Barclays Premier League club that guarantees him an extension to cover next season if he plays 20 matches in all competitions this season. At present he has made 18 appearances, but the signings of Jermain Defoe and Milan Baros on loan may restrict his appearances over the remainder of the campaign.