Nikos will finally not make to the last friendly game before the European Championship Qualifiers start this September. Greece will be playing on the 21st, but with United being scheduled to play on the 19th, Nikos would have only one day to depart from the UK and join the rest of the team.

"I had a word with both managers as I wanted them to fully understand what the situation was. I always want to play for the national team. Who does not? However we all concluded that my club will have to come first this time and as such I will not be travelling to join the rest of the team after the West Ham game. I do understand that the decision taken is the right one but on the other hand it is really a pity that I will make it to the game, as it will be the last friendly before our national team faces Spain early next month. "