Sunderland keep seven AFCON players for Tyne-Wear
Sunderland are set to to retain seven Africa Cup Of Nations-bound players for the Wear-Tyne derby, Sky Sports News understands. FIFA has informed clubs they will be able to keep players heading to AFCON until December 15, allowing Sunderland to field a full-strength squad against rivals Newcastle…
Sunderland will retain seven players who are due to join Africa Cup of Nations squads, Sky Sports News understands. FIFA has allowed clubs to hold on to AFCON-bound players until December 15, enabling Sunderland to name a near full-strength side for the Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle on December 14.
Among those being kept are Congo midfielder Noah Sadiki and Morocco winger Chemsdine Talbi, both ever-presents in Sunderland’s Premier League line-up so far, and forward Bertrand Traore, who scored in Saturday’s 3-2 victory over Bournemouth. Defender Reinildo Mandava, who has logged 843 minutes this season, will also be available, alongside squad players Simon Adingra and Arthur Masuaku.
The seven AFCON-bound players have contributed a combined 3,553 minutes this term, a valuable boost as Sunderland prepare for their first league meeting with Newcastle in nine years.
On Newcastle’s side, striker Yoanne Wissa was omitted from DR Congo’s squad and will remain with the Magpies into January. Manager Eddie Howe confirmed Wissa returned to full training on Monday and will be reintegrated into the squad.
The Tyne-Wear derby will be shown live on Sky Sports at 2pm on December 14.
Sports World Zone Staff
Writing on Premier League