The African Cup of Nations 2019 gets underway this evening in Egypt, with the hosts the favourites to lift the prestigious tournament.
A total of 20 players currently plying their trade in the EFL will be on show in this years tournament, and here are five to watch out for this summer:
Ahmed Hegazi – Egypt and West Bromwich Albion
With Egypt the favourites to lift the trophy on the 19th July, a lot will be expected of Mo Salah and co. One player to watch is West Brom’s Ahmed Hegazi. The centre-back was instrumental in the Baggies achieving a fourth place finish in the Championship last season.
Peter Etebo – Nigeria and Stoke City
Etebo has been a regular with the Super Eagles since 2016, and his move to Stoke City has only cemented his place in the Nigeria midfield. Although he hardly set the world alight last season at the Bet365 Stadium, he will be key if his national side are to have any success this AFCON.
Adi Yussuf – Tanzania and Blackpool
Tanzania are only making their second ever appearance at the tournament this summer, and Blackpool fans will be getting their first look at Adi Yussuf as a Tangerines player having signed from Solihull Moors in May.
Saido Berahino – Burundi and Stoke City
After breaking through the youth system at West Brom as a 20 year old in 2013, Berahino was viewed by many as a future England star. He played at every level from under-16s to under-21s for the Three Lions but switched allegiances in 2018 to play for Burundi.
Britt Assombalonga – DR Congo and Middlesbrough
It was touch and go whether Assombalonga would be included in the DR Congo set up for the African Cup of Nations this summer but his 15 goals last season mean he will play a part, and he will be hoping to add to his one cap for his country.
