Africa Cup of Nations organisers confirm players will be able to stay with their clubs until January 3 in a major boost to Premier League sides, with the rule over tomorrow's release date relaxed out of 'goodwill'

Footballers heading to next month's Africa Cup of Nations finals will be allowed to play for their clubs until January 3, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) said on Sunday.

Many were set to miss matches because of the rule that dictates clubs must release players 14 days before a continental championship or the World Cup.

But CAF has agreed to allow players whose clubs have matches between December 27 and January 3 to play them before joining up with their national squads for the Cup of Nations finals, which kick off in Cameroon on January 9.