Due to a busy schedule with Mainz, Nikolce Noveski asked Babunski to be left out of the Azerbaijan friendly.

As Noveski explained to FFM’s website, Mainz just played games with Borussia Dortmund and Bayern München and also will be active in Europa League qualifications while the Bundesliga season starts this weekend so Noveski asked Babunski not to call him up for the Azerbaijan friendly.  Noveski is a true professional and there is no reason to doubt him as he said he will be back for the qualifiers against Russia and Andorra in September.  Nikolce is the captain for Mainz and had a solid season last year helping his club finish 5th place in the German Bundesliga and securing a place in the Europa League.

Noveski is 32 years old and is set to finish his career with Mainz.  He is respected by his teammates, coaches, and fans and that was a big reason why he was named captain before the start of last season.  Noveski signed a contract extension with Mainz last season and the club is looking forward to the new season as they will be moving to a new stadium.  Over the past couple of years, Noveski has been a constant on the Macedonian national team where he has made 45 appearances and has scored two goals.  Noveski is known as an uncompromising defender with solid character who is a team player and will give his all each and every game.