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Afternoon Ticker: FIFA investigating Nigeria situation, Simek joins League One club and more

Nigeria national team 1 (Getty Images)

By FRANCO PANIZO

The first World Cup in Africa has mostly been a disaster for African teams, and not only because one nation advanced from its group.

FIFA is currently investigating Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan's statement that he has suspended the Super Eagles from competing for two years following their disappointing performance at the World Cup.

FIFA has received documents relating to Jonathan's announcement and will continue to look into the situation before making a decision. The sport's governing body is also currently looking into a similar situation with the French national team.

Here are more stories to help you get through the day:

Simeks signs with Carlisle United

American right back Frank Simek signed with League One club Carlisle United on a two-year deal on Thursday, ending his time with Sheffield Wednesday. Simek, which joined Wednesday in 2005, made 12 appearances for the club last season. 

Sheffield Wednesday will also play in England's third tier this season after suffering relegation from the Championship.

Manchester City target Milner

James Milner may not have enjoyed the strongest World Cup performance, but that has not stopped Manchester City from setting its sights on him.

City are hoping to sign Milner from Aston Villa, but believe the 25-year-old midfielder will need to ask his current club to lower his transfer fee in order to make the move happen.  Aston Villa's current asking price is estimated to be around 30 million.

Robles leaves Kaiserslautern

American goalkeeper Luis Robles won't be playing in the Bundesliga this season, at least not with recently-promoted Kaiserslautern. Robles turned down a new deal from the club he joined in 2007 and will be a free agent when the summer transfer window opens. After starting for much of the 2008-09 season, Robles reverted to the bench and made just one appearance for the club this past season.

Nakamura hangs international boots

Shunsuke Nakamura announced his retirement from international soccer following Japan's penalty kick loss to Paraguay, ending his 12-year tenure with the Blue Samurai. Having made his debut in 1998, Nakamura played 98 times and scored 24 goals for his country.

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What do you make of Nigeria's situation? Think Simek joining Carlisle United is a good move? Would Milner be a good fit at City? Should Robles look to stay overseas or join MLS? How do you rate Nakamura's international career?

Share your thoughts below.

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