Yoane Wissa left out of DR Congo AFCON squad, focuses on Newcastle return

Newcastle United forward Yoane Wissa has been left out of DR Congo’s squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.

The 29-year-old has not played for Newcastle since his £55 million arrival from Brentford due to the knee injury he suffered on international duty in September.

Wissa scored in both of DR Congo’s matches during that international window before damaging his knee in a defeat to Senegal.

Newcastle quickly moved to calm fears of an anterior cruciate ligament problem, but the forward has only resumed controlled training in recent weeks.

His omission from the AFCON squad means he will remain on Tyneside to continue his recovery, removing the risk of Newcastle losing him for the entire festive programme.

Manager Eddie Howe confirmed that Wissa has already taken part in one behind-closed-doors 11v11 session and is scheduled for another.

There has been no indication that Wissa will be rushed back into the squad, but the club believe he is moving closer to a return as long as he avoids another setback.

Wissa’s absence from the tournament also reflects DR Congo’s decision to stick with most of the group that progressed from last month’s World Cup African play-off.

The national team face Benin, Botswana, and Senegal in Group D as they look to progress under Sebastien Desabre.

Desabre has called up several recent additions, including Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Mario Stroeykens, but opted not to include Wissa despite previously relying on him as a goalscoring option.

The decision ensures the forward can be reintegrated at club level as soon as he is cleared to play, with Newcastle hopeful that he could feature in a matchday squad within the next fortnight.