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.
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.”