QPR skipper Adel Taarabt vows to never play for Morocco again after Algeria snub

Adel Taarabt, Morocco (PA)

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Morocco’s preparations for their 2012 African Cup of Nations qualifier against Algeria have been rocked by the sudden departure of QPR playmaker Adel Taarabt, who has claimed he will never play for his country again after learning he would not be starting in Saturday’s clash.

“I’m currently in Marseille. I decided to leave the training camp when I learned that I wouldn’t start against Algeria. I prefer to never again play for the national team, with or without Eric Gerets Morocco coach,” fumed Taarabt, speaking to Radio Mars.

“I’d rather represent my country through my club. I apologise to our supporters. The national team is finished for me. Every time it’s the same story. I prefer to no longer argue with coaches or the federation and enjoy my vacation.”

Taarabt added that he is particularly disappointed by “mixed messages” coming from his national team’s technical staff and that he feels he should have been rewarded with a starting place given his early arrival in Morocco for training.