North Queensland Fury’s Akoto retires from international duties with Togo

North Queensland Fury defender Eric Akoto has decided to pull the pin on his international career with African nation Togo.

The 30-year old centre-back last night called time on his duties with the Togolese national team – something he wanted to do at the start of the year.

Akoto confirmed he wanted to retire before the African Cup of Nations in Angola in January, an event which was marred by the tragedy where three Togo officials were killed by ***** gunfire, but was influenced by Manchester City’s Emmanuel Adebayor to play.

“What I wanted to do was retire before that Cup of Nations, but Adebayor has good respect for me and wanted me to be there," Akoto told the Townsville Bulletin.

"They needed an experienced defender, so I went. Now I can't get rid of the memory of what happened.

"I have sent the letter to say I have resigned. It was the hardest (decision), yes."

And Akoto said it will be even harder to return to Africa.

“I have to think of the Fury," Akoto added. "I love living here but to go back to Africa is too far, too hard."