'Shenmue's' Nozomi cut from Sega racer?

Rumours that Shenmue's Ryo Nozomi has been cut from Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing have begun to circulate.

It was previously reported that Shenmue protagonist Ryo Hazuki will be a playable character in the game. His love interest Nozomi was originally intended to ride on the back of his motorcycle before being ruled out for inclusion.

"She was going to ride on the back of Ryo's bike," executive producer Steve Lycett allegedly wrote on Sonic Stadium forum. "But there was the small issue of where does she go when the Forklift appears."

Nozomi joins a host of other rejected characters, including Sega Saturn mascot Segata Sanshiro. Lycett also downplayed rumours that Banjo and Kazooie will be appearing in the Xbox 360 version of the game.

Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing will be released in February for 360, PS3, Wii, DS and PC.