Niger's hopes of a successful Africa Cup of Nations campaign could hinge on striker Moussa Maazou finding his top form in front of goal.
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The 24-year-old, who once worked as a motor mechanic, currently plays his club football for Tunisian club Etoile Sahel.
His early career as a professional football player began with Belgian club Lokeren, where an impressive scoring record resulted in a move to Russia.
But things did not work out at CSKA Moscow and after just six months Maazou was on his way to Monaco and then Bordeaux on loan moves.
In 2012, Maazou signed a three-year contract with former African Champions League winners Etoile.
He may have failed to make his mark in France and Russia, but Maazou remains Niger's star man, and there is a belief that he could use AFCON 2013 to carve out another opportunity at furthering his career in Europe.
"Maazou is our best player," said Niger FA technical director Garba Lawali."He is gifted, fast, daring, energetic and very much loves to play for his country.
"We still believe he could make it back to Europe. He struggled with discipline the last time he was in Europe, but now he is a lot more mature and knows what is expected of him."
Maazou made his international debut back in 2008 and played a huge part in helping his country to qualify for last year's AFCON.
He has also been strongly linked with a move to Premier Soccer League side Chippa United, the club where his countryman Daouda Kassaly plays in goal.
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