Graham Potter wishes Yves Bissouma well for ‘important’ Africa Cup of Nations
Brighton and Mali midfielder Bissouma is among a host of Premier League stars set to be out of domestic action during AFCON.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Brighton boss Graham Potter insists the Africa Cup of Nations is an “important tournament” and says Yves Bissouma has the club’s blessing to play in it.
Mali midfielder Bissouma is among a host of Premier League stars set to be unavailable for domestic action early in the new year after being recalled by his country following a three-year absence.
Former England striker Ian Wright said on Thursday that the AFCON, which runs from January 9 to February 6, is being “disrespected” by some negative media coverage.
Despite being poised to lose the influential Bissouma following Sunday’s trip to Everton, Potter recognises the importance of players’ international careers.
“He’s due to go, so he goes with, of course, our blessing and I hope he does well and good luck to them (Mali),” said Potter, who worked in Africa earlier in his career during a spell as technical director for the Ghana women’s team.
“Playing for your country is a fantastic thing and we support our players in that. It is what it is and you just have to adapt, we know that.
“We wish him well because it’s an important tournament, it’s an important occasion for him and his family.”
Bissouma, who was born in Ivory Coast, won the last of his 18 Mali caps in October 2018 before reportedly falling out with the coach.
Potter also expects out-of-favour forward Aaron Connolly to temporarily depart the Amex Stadium next month.
Republic of Ireland international Connolly has made just one top-flight start all season and been heavily linked with a switch to Championship club Middlesbrough.
The 21-year-old was left out of Albion’s squad for the 2-0 Boxing Day win over Brentford and the subsequent 1-1 draw at Chelsea.
Asked if a short-term move to the second tier would be beneficial for all parties, Potter replied: “I think it is. I’ve nothing to confirm yet but I think that’s the intention.
“Aaron is at the stage where he needs to play football and, if we can find the right fit, then that will work for him and for us. There comes a point when you need to play, you need to let football do the talking.”
Brighton head to Goodison Park boosted by taking four points from six during the past week.
Leandro Trossard, who opened the scoring against Brentford before missing the trip to Stamford Bridge due to a tight hamstring, could return to action on Merseyside.
“He’s trained today, so that’s good news for us, we’ll see how he reacts to that,” Potter said of the Belgium forward.
“There was no injury, it was more fatigue and precaution based on the tight turnaround of the games. We’re hopeful he will be available.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments