Crystal Palace head coach Patrick Vieira has insisted that the Africa Cup of Nations deserves more respect. The Senegalese-born former France international is set to lose three of his key players to the tournament when it kicks off in Cameroon on 9 January.
Patrick Vieira Wants AFCON to get More Recognition
The likes of Cheikhou Kouyate, Jordan Ayew, and Wilfried Zaha have all been named in their respective countries. Speaking of the tournament he said: “I respect and understand the passion and the importance to players to go and represent their country so I will never stop any player going to play the Africa Cup of Nations.”
Patrick Viera also said: “I believe that that competition needs to be more respected – because this competition is as important as the European Championships.” He also challenged more European journalists to take a greater interest in the event and appreciate exactly what it means for the African continent.
On the participation of journalist in AFCON, Patrick Vieira said: “It might be important for you guys to cover the Africa Cup of Nations a little bit more and to go to Africa and interview people to understand what it means for every single one of them.”
“When you are talking about Senegal I don’t think people would understand if (Sadio) Mane or Cheikou Kouyate didn’t represent their nation. If there was more coverage of that competition I think people will understand more how important it is for the African continent.”
