DR Congo have cleared Benik Afobe to resume action with his club AFC Bournemouth after declining a call up to “Les Leopards” for the upcoming 2017 AFCON in Gabon.
“AFC Bournemouth have received clearance from DR Congo, which will enable Benik Afobe to resume playing for the club with immediate effect,” the club posted on their website.
The 23-year-old striker turned down coach Florent Ibenge citing need establish himself first in the Premier League.
He explained himself, “I have a lot of respect for everyone at DR Congo: the staff there, the players and fans. It’s a massive tournament for everyone, but thinking about my development and being at this stage in my career where I’m trying to establish myself in my first full Premier League season, I just want to keep improving.”
Afobe missed the recent home draw with Arsenal and the Emirates FA Cup tie at Millwall, but is now eligible again and will be in contention for a place in the Bournemouth squad for Saturday’s trip to Hull City.
