Yoane Wissa will not play in the Africa Cup of Nations, allowing him to focus on his recovery and debut for Newcastle United in December.
Newcastle United have received a significant boost for the crucial mid-season period following confirmation that forward Yoane Wissa will not participate in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
This decision, according to a report from Geordie Boot Boys, alleviates fears of the Magpies losing their £55 million summer signing during a busy schedule, and the striker’s reaction to the news has been highlighted as a sign of dedication to the Tyneside club.
Wissa, who signed from Brentford, is yet to make his competitive debut for Newcastle after suffering a serious knee injury while away on international duty with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) in September.
His inclusion in the AFCON squad would have seen him miss a large chunk of January, prolonging his wait for a club debut and adding to Eddie Howe’s attacking selection concerns.
His confirmed omission from the DR Congo squad means the 29-year-old can now dedicate the winter period entirely to recovery and integration into the first team setup at St. James’ Park.
The report suggests that Wissa’s personal priority is now unequivocally the welfare of his club side, a stance which “speaks volumes for Newcastle United.”
The forward issued a short statement regarding the decision, which reportedly emphasizes his immediate goals:
“Focus is fully on my recovery and Newcastle United’s success.” This commitment is viewed as an encouraging step for a player whose injury setback has cost the club dearly so far this season.
The expected return of Wissa is now anticipated to provide much-needed quality and depth to the frontline as Newcastle push to climb the Premier League table.