Pelly-Ruddock Mpanzu could make an appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations following DR Congo’s qualification win over Sudan.
Mpanzu could be set to be travelling to Ivory Coast for AFCON and as a result would miss up to a month of Premier League action.
The 29-year old Luton man has been with the Hatters since 2014 and made his first appearance for DR Congo in 2021.
Despite being called up, the midfielder didn’t make an appearance for his nation but could still make the AFCON squad.
In a group containing Mauritania, Gabon and Sudan, Mpanzu’s side find themselves on top of the pile.
Six games played, four wins and two losses has seen DR Congo reach the finals in Cote D’Ivoire.
What games will Pelly-Ruddock Mpanzu miss?
The Africa Cup of Nations starts on January 13th and will run through until the 11th February 2024.
This will see Mpanzu miss matches vs Burnley, Brighton and Hove Albion, Newcastle United and Sheffield United.
Games against Brighton and Newcastle are going to be tough with or without the midfielder so that isn’t an issue so much.
The bottom of the table clashes against Burnley and the Blades will be much more important.
So far this season he has made five appearances, playing 120 minutes over that time.
He represents a great squad player and is obviously well liked by fans and his teammates alike.
With Ross Barkley, Tanith Chong, Albert Sambi Lokonga and Marvelous Nakamba joining this summer, the Hatters have plenty of option.
Although it will be a frustrating time to lose Mpanzu, there is cover and strength in depth to deal with him being missing.
Luton fans will wish him the best in his journey as he tries to win the Cup of Nations.