Wissa Omitted from DR Congo AFCON Squad, Boost for Newcastle

Newcastle United received a significant boost on Monday when forward Yoane Wissa was omitted from the Democratic Republic of Congo's squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, allowing the club to retain the 29-year-old during a crucial festive period as he nears a return from injury.

Wissa, who joined Newcastle from Brentford for 55 million pounds in the summer transfer window, has yet to make his debut for the club. The forward sustained a knee injury while representing DR Congo during the September international break. He scored in his country's 4-1 victory over South Sudan on September 5 but picked up the issue in a subsequent 3-2 defeat to Senegal. Initial concerns about a serious anterior cruciate ligament tear were ruled out, though Wissa experienced a minor setback in his recovery during October.

The injury occurred just days after his arrival at St James' Park, where Newcastle sought to bolster their attacking options following Alexander Isak's departure to Liverpool. Wissa's absence has left head coach Eddie Howe relying on Nick Woltemade as the primary striker. The German forward has impressed with seven goals in 14 starts across all competitions this season.