The 32-year-old would be 36 by the time that tournament rolls around, and he insists there is no way his appearance in a friendly against Mali in midweek was a farewell to the Elephants.

In quotes reported by the Ivorian press, Drogba said: "I could not leave like that. The day I decide to retire internationally, I will take care to say goodbye to the fans. I would never creep away on tiptoes.

"I'm not in the twilight of my career with the Ivory Coast. I intend to participate in the next two African Nations Cups in 2012 and 2013.

"I'll also play my third World Cup in 2014 in Brazil. If I am called upon, I will answer."