GABON coach Gernot Rohr has revealed that skipper Daniel Cousin has been unhappy with a bench role and the striker himself has admitted he wants to start from the first whistle.

Cousin was an inspired second-half substitute in the 3-2 win over Morocco and started the final Group C match against Tunisia Tuesday night.

"Cousin was not happy when he was out of the first team. But we all know we need him very much,” revealed coach Rohr.

On Tuesday, Nice striker Eric Mouloungui was dropped in favour of the former Glasgow Rangers striker, who said he wishes to keep his place in the first XI.

"I try to do my best for my team and I hope to keep doing so,” Cousin said.

"From the age of 12 I have been a leader and I have for the past five years been the captain of this team.

"I’m therefore ready to take responsibilities from the start.”