Former Newcastle United striker Alan Shearer has questioned Yohanne Wissa’s decision to play for DR Congo during the September international window, suggesting that the forward should have exercised more caution and loyalty toward his new club.
Wissa, who joined Newcastle from Brentford in a £55 million deal, has yet to feature for the Magpies after suffering a knee injury while representing DR Congo last month.
The 29-year-old found the net in both of his country’s matches, against South Sudan and Senegal, but was injured in the latter game. His recovery has ruled him out of Premier League action since, and even if he returns on schedule, he is expected to miss part of December and January while playing in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Speaking to Betfair, Shearer admitted it was a difficult situation but said Wissa could have shown more restraint after missing pre-season with Newcastle.
“It will be a really difficult decision for Wissa not to go to AFCON because you always want to represent your country,” Shearer said.
“But what I would say is, because of him not training or playing during the summer, he could’ve shown more responsibility in not playing as much as he did in those two games when he went away on international duty and hadn’t played at all.”
The Newcastle legend acknowledged the pride players feel in representing their nations but pointed out the financial and sporting commitment the club has already made.
“It’s really tough to say to someone they can’t and won’t represent their country when it means so much. And we know AFCON is huge and players want to play in that tournament,” he continued.
“It’ll be a tough ask, but I understand that there’ll be a lot of people thinking that he’s never played for Newcastle and he needs to show some loyalty towards us.
“I get it and understand that point of view because Newcastle shelled out a lot of money on him and he hasn’t been able to take to the St James’ Park turf as yet. It’d be a really tough decision for him and Newcastle. Whether there’s a way around it, I’m not so sure.”
