Rangers star Cyriel Dessers insists he's hoping to play again for Nigeria in the African Cup of Nations in January.

But he could miss a host of matches for the Ibrox side if he gets his wish.

Dessers has won four caps for the Super Eagles, but has missed out on the past couple of squads picked by manager Jose Peseiro after being on the standby list.

The former Feyenoord star has netted five goals for Rangers since his summer move from Italian side Cremonese.

Nigeria have been drawn in a group alongside hosts Ivory Coast, Equatorial Guinea and Guinea-Bissau for the tournament.

Their first game is on January 14, while the Premiership is on a winter's break. However, the Scottish Cup fourth round is on January 20.

And with Nigeria one of the favourites to go far, they could be involved up to the final of the tournament which doesn't take place until February 11.

He would potentially miss Rangers' games against St Mirren, Livingston and Aberdeen as well as the Cup game.

Dessers, in an interview in Belgium, said: "The last few times I was in the Nigeria pre-selection squad, but not in the final selection.

"If you look at the other strikers and the form that are in, I can understand that.

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"We have a few players competing to be the third or fourth striker and then it depends on form. The competition in Nigeria is absurd.

"I could have chosen to play for Belgium, but I am very happy with my choice. I have already experienced fantastic moments.

"My first international goal, in front of a hundred thousand spectators against Mexico in Dallas, is a moment I will never forget."