WILFRIED ZAHA has been named in Ivory Coast’s provisional squad ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Crystal Palace winger recently submitted a request to Fifa to switch allegiances after he was upset at being snubbed for England’s last two friendlies.
The 24-year-old has two friendly caps for the Three Lions but looks set to ditch his chances of getting in Southgate’s side by representing the Elephants in Gabon next month.
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As Zaha didn’t play a competitive fixture in an England jersey Fifa rules state he is able to commit his future to his country of birth – despite Southgate’s attempts to convince him otherwise.
Zaha’s decision will be a blow to Eagles boss Sam Allardyce who could lose his key player for a month.
The winger has been in fine form for the Eagles in recent months, scoring three and assisting six this campaign.
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He is set to link up with Premier League stars Wilfried Bony, Manchester United defender Eric Bailly and Lamine Kone.
The tournament will get underway on 14 January with Ivory Coast's first fixture coming two days later against Togo.
The final will take place on 5 February.
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