Abe boost for Foxes

Japan have been invited to play in the competition in Argentina in July, meaning Abe would miss most of City's pre-season preparations.

However, manager Sven-Goran Eriksson believes Abe, who has been capped 50 times by his country, might not want to participate.

"We have to decide together with Yuki but I wouldn't think it is something he wants to do," Eriksson told the Leicester Mercury.

Following Abe`s first season in England after his arrival from J-League side Urawa Reds Diamonds, Eriksson added: "After coming into a tough league like the Championship, he has been fantastic. He is getting better and better.

"He has adapted well. Yuki has a contract for two more years and is very much in my thoughts."

Source: PA

Source: PA