Everton defender Joseph Yobo has pulled out of the Nigeria squad to face Niger after failing to shake off a back injury.

The 26-year-old centre-half was originally in the party for the African Cup of Nations qualifier on June 17 but will now miss his first international assignment since 2004.

Yobo, who was an ever-present for David Moyes' side last season, told the club's official website: "I've made frantic effort to shake off the injury but it is more severe than I first thought.

"I played with the pains all through the game (against Uganda) in Kampala and now need to rest it and wait to recover fully.

"The doctor says it could get worse if I keep pushing myself with it or playing through with painkillers.

"It's rather unfortunate that I will be missing the game against Niger, however, I'm confident that my colleagues will not let the country down in Niamey."