DR Congo boss offers positive update on Sunderland’s Arthur Masuaku before AFCON last-16 tie | OneFootball

Arthur Masuaku could return for DR Congo against Algeria in the AFCON last 16 on Tuesday afternoon, with national coach Sebastien Desabre expecting the Sunderland defender to be available after an ankle scare.

According to Sunderland Echo, the full-back went off late in the 1-1 draw with Senegal just after Christmas and then missed last week's 3-0 win over Botswana, with tests showing a minor ankle sprain that required a few days' assessment.

Masuaku has since resumed full training with his team-mates, and Desabre said selection in that position would be decided before the tie, indicating the left-back is in contention.

His apparent recovery arrives amid ongoing talk over his future on Wearside. Head coach Regis Le Bris has not ruled out a January move, stressing competition in defence has limited Masuaku's minutes, while adding he remains important and that any change would depend on club and player plans aligning.

Desabre also assessed Noah Sadiki, who has featured in all three of DR Congo's AFCON matches. The 21-year-old summer signing from Union Saint-Gilloise has been a standout for Sunderland, and his international boss said he is playing plenty at club level, is learning the international game, works hard and brings positive energy.

Source: Sunderland Echo