Bakary Sako is not playing for Wolves exit

Wolves winger Bakary Sako insists he is not viewing the African Cup of Nations as a chance to put himself in the shop window.

The 26-year-old jetted off yesterday to join up with his Mali team-mates ahead of the tournament, which gets under way in Equatorial Guinea this week.

With the transfer window open, Sako's future is again the subject of speculation, but Sako is focusing firmly on performing for his country.

He said: "I am not going there to be noticed by anyone. I am going there for a new experience and to play for my country.

"I'm looking forward to it because I have never been so I think it will be good for me."

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Sako admitted frustration at being unable to finish with a flourish in his final game for Wolves before heading to the tournament at Fulham on Saturday.

The wide man had one shot pushed onto the post and saw another fly just wide, as the FA Cup third round tie ended goalless.

He said: "I wanted to score before going to the African Cup of Nations, but it was not to be. The goalkeeper got a hand to it."

"We have a good squad and I trust every player in the team and I am sure they are going to do well while I am away."

Head coach Kenny Jackett accepts there may well be interest in Sako over the course of the month, but is hopeful Wolves can keep him.

Jackett said: "So far we have managed to keep hold of him but we always know that – whoever you are – your best players can be vulnerable."