Sunderland learn if they’ll be compensated for mass AFCON departures
Sunderland have six first-team players set to compete in AFCON.
Sunderland travel to face Brighton this weekend, knowing that they face a big task to come away with all three points as a result of the absences they will have to contend with.
The Black Cats have six players due to compete at AFCON, with the majority of those having already travelled to join up with their respective countries.
However, are Sunderland likely to receive compensation for the players due to take part? Finance expert Dan Plumley explained the situation to Mackem News.
AFCON doesn’t have same rules as World Cup
Historically, clubs that have had players play at a World Cup have been rewarded financially by FIFA, based on how long they were in the competition.
However, that is not the case for AFCON, Plumley explained exclusively to Mackem News, meaning Sunderland aren’t likely to receive any monetary value from having their squad decimated for the tournament.
“I’m not so sure they do get compensated,” explained Plumley.
“There is nothing that I have ever seen that suggests there is a policy similar to the World Cup on this one.
“I do think it will be a blow to Sunderland here, though, perhaps more than some other clubs, and it will be interesting to see how they cater for these absences.”
Sunderland handed unexpected AFCON boost ahead of Brighton clash
All but one of Sunderland’s six players due to compete at AFCON have already departed Wearside, with Habib Diarra the only one who hasn’t yet travelled.
The Senegal international has been sidelined at Sunderland with an injury sustained back in September, and with his country not due to play until 23 December, he has been afforded a few extra days to complete his rehab.
That comes as a boost for the Black Cats, as Regis Le Bris revealed that he could make the squad to take on Brighton on Saturday.
“Habib might be with us for Brighton, which would mark the end of his rehab process. If everything is positive, he will then be able to leave with his national team,” Le Bris said in his latest press conference.
Given Noah Sadiki’s absence, Diarra’s return would be a huge boost to their chances of a win against the Seagulls.
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