Premier League clubs are bracing themselves to lose several key stars as the Africa Cup of Nations looms.
Up to 17 teams could be impacted by the tournament which runs from December 21 to January 18, with as many as 45 stars jetting out.
Playing in Africa's showpiece tournament is a dream for the continent's footballers but its biennial scheduling proves disruptive for elite European clubs.
AFCON is typically held in January and February to line up with Africa's dry season and that has proven a stumbling block for clubs like Liverpool in the past.