Which Premier League player will be missed most this month, we rank the top ten in action in Africa…
It’s Africa Cup of Nations time again, and as the Premier League players depart for the competition, we could down the top ten stars who will be missed most by their clubs sides during their time away.
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10) Papiss Cisse (Newcastle United)
The Senegalese striker has scored crucial goals for Newcastle so far this season, netting nine goals in all competitions. He will be a big miss for whoever takes over as the Magpies new boss.
9) Yannick Bolasie (Crystal Palace)
The DR Congo star has grown in importance for Palace in recent months, and Alan Pardew with be loathe to be without him as he settles into his new role as club manager without one of his best prospects.
8) Nabil Bentaleb (Tottenham Hotspur)
The 20-year-old Algerian has been in impressive form for Tottenham in recent weeks, and played a key role in the club’s recent 5-3 win over Chelsea. Could Spurs struggle without him over the next month.
7) Diafra Sakho (West Ham United)
Sakho has been in fine form for West Ham so far this season, scoring nine times to fire the Hammers up the table. As he prepares to leave for Africa with Senegal, who will Sam Allardyce choose to turn too.
6) Sadio Mane (Southampton)
The summer signing has been crucial to Southampton’s fine form so far this season, particularly with his goals in recent weeks. Senegal will also be relying on him as they look for a decent run in the competition.
5) John Obi Mikel (Chelsea)
Chelsea have been including Mikel more of late, with Fabregas pushed further forward. Nigeria are heavily reliant on the Blues midfielder, but Jose Mourinho should have the squad to cope with the loss for a month.
4) Alex Song (West Ham United)
His inclusion in the Cameroon squad is still uncertain, but the Hammers midfielder will be a huge loss if he does choose to end his international exile. He has been vital so far this season, dominating the centre of the park.
3) Kolo Toure (Liverpool)
Toure has been surprisingly important for Liverpool this season, considering his difficulties last term. But with the Reds struggling, they have been heavily reliant on the Ivorian, and will miss him as he leaves.
2) Wilfried Bony (Swansea City)
Bony might have already finished his Swansea career, and could come back a Manchester City player – if recent reports are to be believed. The Swans will hugely miss their top scorer, and City would rather have him sooner rather than later.
1) Yaya Toure (Manchester City)
The other half of the Toure’s, and the Ivory Coast’s key player. Manchester City have always been reliant on his dominance in midfield, and his absence could be a pivotal moment in the Premier League title race.
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