Manchester City's Yaya Toure Taking 'Extended Break' from International Football

Goal.com is reporting that Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure is planning to take an "extended break" from playing international football for Cote d'Ivoire in order to focus on his club career.

National team duties took Toure away from City for six weeks at the beginning of 2012 as his country competed in the African Cup of Nations.

Cote d'Ivoire made it to the finals before losing to Zambia in a penalty shootout.

During Toure's absence, Manchester City were eliminated from the FA Cup by Manchester United and the Carling Cup by Liverpool.

With Roberto Mancini's team winning just once in their last four matches, critics have pointed out that many in the squad (including Toure) look tired. Toure addressed those rumors last week, saying:

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"I want to enjoy every minute, every second and this year help my team to win the Premier League for the first time...

"The manager never tells me to have a rest, because he knows me. He knows I am a competitive professional, and if I can get two days of rest, it is enough."

"

Goal.com's report indicates that Toure plans to meet with club officials to let them know he will skip international commitments next season in order to focus fully on helping Manchester City win the Premier League title.

Toure has made 36 appearances in all competitions for City this season. Only David Silva has worn the club's jersey more.