Newcastle receive welcome boost on Yoane Wissa after latest DR Congo decision

Yoane Wissa is yet to make his debut for Newcastle after signing for the Magpies on deadline day from Brentford, but Eddie Howe has been given a boost that could see Wissa make his debut soon.

The forward went on international duty with DR Congo in September but sustained a knee injury, which has kept him from making his first appearance for Newcastle.

Wissa joined the Magpies on a £55m deal, and he was slated to be an exciting signing for the club alongside Nick Woltemade, who has started his first Premier League campaign strongly.

Howe has received word of Wissa's status for the Africa Cup of Nations, which starts on December 21 and runs through mid-January.

Will Wissa be included in AFCON for DR Congo?

According to The Athletic, Wissa has been omitted from DR Congo's squad for AFCON, which could see Wissa make his debut when many thought he would be at the tournament.

Wissa is still working his way back to full fitness, but Howe did provide a positive update on the forward ahead of Newcastle's match against Tottenham Hotspur.

Howe said, "He had an 11 v. 11 game this week while we were at Everton. He will have another one this week, and we will see where he is.

"There has been no change. He is working back, and he is doing well. Everything is positive, but he will be back involved when we think he is able to contribute to the group and has a minimal chance of reinjury."

Wissa scored 20 goals in all competitions for Brentford last season, with the forward being seen as the ideal replacement for Alexander Isak. A combination of Wissa and Woltemade up top could be the big boost that Newcastle need as the festive fixtures approach.