Fulham midfielder Mahamadou Diarra pulls out of African Nations Cup

The 31-year-old has been struggling with a knee complaint

Mahamadou Diarra (GETTY IMAGES)

Fulham's Mahamadou Diarra will not play for Mali at the upcoming African Nations Cup due to injury.

The 31-year-old has been struggling with a knee complaint recently and has not featured for the Cottagers since their 3-0 home loss to Tottenham on December 1.

Fulham manager Martin Jol has made his frustration clear over the fact the Eagles still intended to call up Diarra for the African Nations Cup, which kicks off on January 19.

However, after considering the advice of Fulham's medical team, Mali have reviewed the situation and Diarra will not participate in the tournament in South Africa.

The former Real Madrid midfielder, who joined the Whites in February 2012, will return to west London to continue his rehabilitation there.

PA