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

Newcastle United forward Yoane Wissa has been left out of DR Congo’s squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, ending speculation over whether the injured striker would join his national team later this month.

The 29-year-old has not played a minute 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, an issue that initially sparked concerns of a long-term absence.

Newcastle quickly moved to calm fears of an ACL problem, but the forward has taken longer than expected to return and 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.

Eddie Howe confirmed that Wissa has already taken part in one behind-closed-doors 11-v-11 session and is scheduled for another as the club assess his readiness for competitive action.

“He had an 11 vs 11 game this week,” Howe said. “He will have another one and we will see where he is. He is doing well and everything is positive.”

There has been no indication from Newcastle 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.

His availability during the AFCON window could prove significant for Howe, who has seen Nick Woltemade lead the line impressively but still views Wissa as the Premier League-ready forward signed to cover the loss of Alexander Isak.

Wissa’s absence from the tournament also reflects DR Congo’s decision to stick largely with the group that progressed from last month’s World Cup African playoff.

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.

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