How will AFCON affect EPL sides

Premier League sides are preparing for their most intense spell of the season over the festive period, but many squads will be depleted by the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The tournament, hosted by Morocco, runs from December 21 until January 18 meaning clubs could be missing their African stars for six league matches plus the FA Cup third round.

However, the disruption for some could provide an opportunity for others with leaders Arsenal among six clubs without any players departing.

Mohamed Salah is the marquee Premier League name headed for Morocco, but his absence may not hurt Liverpool quite as much as previous versions of the AFCON.

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The Egyptian hinted that last weekend’s victory over Brighton could have been his last game for the Reds after an explosive outburst targeting manager Arne Slot.