Why Neeskens Kebano and Yannick Bolasie won't be playing in DR Congo's Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers as Middlesbrough duo prepare for Bournemouth clash

Kebano, who is on loan from Fulham, would have been called up to the squad along with Boro team-mate Yannick Bolasie, but both have stayed on Teesside due to travel restrictions abroad.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo remains on the UK’s Covid-19 red list, which was updated on March 19.

People aren’t allowed to enter the UK if they have been in or through a red list country in the previous 10 days.

DR Congo are set to play in Gabon on Thursday, March 25 before a home match against Gambia on Monday, March 29.

Both are crucial fixtures which will determine who qualifies for next year’s competition.

Kebano told his national team’s editorial staff: “I am disappointed not to be able to participate in these meetings, especially when we know their importance.

“Me and Yannick discussed it with coach Nsengi and that of Boro to find a solution but unfortunately nothing could change this decision.

“I wish them all good matches with the qualification at the end, god willing. Anyway, I'm behind my guys and believe they are gonna do it.”

Kebano and Bolasie are now preparing for Boro’s next Championship match against Bournemouth on Friday, April 2.

Meanwhile, Boro duo Paddy McNair and George Saville have joined up with the Northern Ireland squad ahead of a World Cup qualifiers against Italy and Bulgaria, as well as a friendly against USA.

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