Nigerian and Ajax striker Babangida has malaria

Nigerian World Cup striker and Ajax Amsterdam player Tigani Babangida has been diagnosed with malaria.

The 24 year old, who won the Dutch title with last season with Ajax, contracted the disease on a trip back to Africa. Treatment is a lengthy and complicated affair for the disease which is known to recur once it has been contracted and the effects may explain why Babangida was used as a substitute in the recent World Cup and only started one match. The illness is certain to curtail his presence for Ajax in the coming season.

Nigerian goalkeeper Peter Rufai has complained this week that he was never fit to start the World Cup Finals and lacked physical and mental preparation for France. He was commanded to play and felt unable to refuse even though by his own estimation he was some six weeks away from full fitness.