Bikey to skip Cameroon training camp

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BURNLEY, England, Nov 24, 2009 (AFP) - Andre Bikey will skip Cameroon's training camp ahead of the African Nations Cup to be available for his English Premier League club Burnley for two extra matches.

The 24-year-old defender/midfielder will fly straight to Angloa for the tournament, which starts on January 10, and will therefore be able to play in a league match at Everton on December 28 and in Burnley's FA Cup third round tie on the weekend of January 2.

Bikey said his decision had been approved by Cameroon manager Paul Le Guen.

"The English League doesn't stop so I don't have to be with the team for two weeks before," Bikey said. "I am going to be with Burnley for the most time possible."

Bikey has established himself as a key player at Burnley having been converted from a centre-back to a defensive midfielder following his pre-season move from Reading.

"When I came to Burnley I didn't expect to be in midfield but I am enjoying it and I try to play as the manager wants," Bikey said.

"The most important thing is to get results and get a permanent place in this league. I think we have a team to do that.

"But you can't just be an optimist, you have to play to get the result and the points we want to secure our place in the Premier League."

Cameroon are one of the top seeds for the African Nations Cup and kick off their campaign against Gabon on January 13. Tunisia and Zambia are also in their first round group for the tournament, which finishes on January 31.