ABIDJAN, March 20 (Xinhua) -- Didier Drogba was left out of the Cote d'Ivoire's squad for World Cup qualifier against Gambia on Saturday.

Drogba disappointed coach Sabri Lamouchi after the quarterfinal exit at the African Cup of Nations earlier the year and it is said that the former Chelsea striker's career at the national team may come to an end.

Lamouchi said Wednesday that he didn't pick Drogba for Saturday's game because he "needs to work to become the Drogba you knew before."

Cote d'Ivoire now leads its World Cup qualifying group.