QPR midfielder Adel Taarabt is leaning towards playing for Morocco in the African Nations Cup.

He says the lure of international competition could be too much for him, despite new boss Harry Redknapp having privately pleaded with him to stay at Loftus Road.

"It's difficult. At the moment, I hope to do my best here before the time comes to take a decision. But I think I will go," the 23-year-old, whose campaign with Morocco will kick off at January 19 against Angola, told the BBC.

I spoke with the manager and we had a talk about whether I'm going to go or not. Of course, it's my country so it's a difficult decision for me because the situation with my club is difficult and the manager asked if I could stay.

"We are employed by our clubs so it is difficult just to leave. You can understand if they are unhappy.

"I would love to stay but it's my country so if I say no everybody at home will think I don't want to play.

"I go there every summer and if the team doesn't do well then the fans will have a go at me and I don't want that. I'm sure they can understand but think they would prefer to see me playing at the tournament."