Cameroon are set for another fall-out with world football's governing body FIFA after their kit suppliers said Thursday they are not in a position to replace the team's controversial one-piece strip.
The 'Indomitable Lions' have been wearing a revolutionary all-in-one body-suit at the African Nations Cup here where they are defending champions but were warned by FIFA chief Sepp Blatter that the outfit contravened the rules of the game.
As a result, they were ordered to change into the traditional shirt and shorts for the knockout stages of the event which start this weekend.
However, on Thursday, the Puma company told the organising committee that they could not replace the kit at such short notice.
"Regarding Cameroon kits, Cameroon informed the Confederation of African Football (CAF) that its manufacturer (Puma) can not manufacture a new kit before 14 February 2004," organisers said in a statement.
"Puma said that they need at least two months to manufacture a new kit for Cameroon. CAF has taken note of the letter sent by the Cameroon FA. Meanwhile, Cameroon will assume its responsibility in this matter while taking part in the competition."
Cameroon skipper Rigobert Song, speaking on the Puma company website, criticised FIFA for banning the strip when it had already been cleared by the Nations Cup organisers.
"On behalf of the whole Cameroon team, I can say that we are delighted with the new one-piece playing kit which we have developed together with our supplier," Song said.
"It is safe to say that the team is quite appalled by how FIFA can suddenly intervene and seemingly overrule something that has already been approved.
"We are here to play football. This playing kit issue has simply taken on ridiculous proportions.
"It is bitterly disappointing that we have to deal with this kind of nonsense in the middle of a top competition, given that we have received the go ahead by CAF, the organising body in charge of the tournament. So, what's the problem?"