NYARKO PLAYS ON - BUT NOT AT EVERTON

The 27-year-old Ghanaian said that he would not play football again after suffering abuse from an Everton fan, but now his brother has revealed that he would like to play again, but not at Everton.

Kajo Nyarko, speaking from Ghana, spoke to BBC Radio 5 Live, saying: "He's going to come back to Ghana next week to consider his future but he is not going to give up.

"The situation at the moment is that I don't think he would like to stay at Everton. I think he will leave Everton."

The 27-year-old has not turned up for training since the incident at Highbury and has had talks with boss Walter Smith about his future.

"My brother had a friendly discussion with Walter Smith and both sides agreed that Alex should stay away from the squad if he has changed his mind about retiring," said Kojo.

"Alex was advised to stay away from training and matches because the fans would be at him."

The club also confirmed that talks have taken place, with more scheduled for next week.

"Walter Smith has today had a discussion with Alex Nyarko in which the player expressed his thoughts on the events of last weekend at Highbury," said Everton spokesman Alan Myers said on the club's website.

"Alex has asked for more time to consider his future and with the club having a very important game against Bradford City at the weekend the manager is happy to allow him that time."