Chelsea get triple AFCON boost as Tosin Adarabioyo decision finally confirmed

• Chelsea
• Chelsea News
• Tosin Adarabioyo

The Africa Cup of Nations is set to begin on December 21 meaning a number of Premier League players will be unavailable over the festive period

Chelsea have been handed a major boost after Nigeria boss Eric Chelle named his 28-man squad for the Africa Cup of Nations. That's because the Blues are one of several teams set to play Fulham while the tournament is taking place.

Marco Silva's Cottagers will have their ranks significantly depleted as their three Nigerian stars Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey and Samuel Chukwueze are all heading to Morocco with the Super Eagles.

Speaking on Thursday, the Fulham boss admitted losing the trio was a huge blow, explaining: "We knew it was going to happen. We will not panic about its impact.

"We are talking about three starting XI players. We know Alex is a key player in any position he plays. The importance of Calvin, and what Chukwueze has been doing in recent games. You have to find solutions. If you know any other way to handle it [AFCON], let me know."

Chelsea travel to Fulham on January 7 after beating their west London rivals 2-0 back in August.

It was a controversial game at Stamford Bridge as Joshua King had his first Fulham goal chalked off following an alleged foul from Rodrigo Muniz.

Silva was furious that day, exploding on the touchline before later claiming "it was an unbelievable decision".

Meanwhile, former Fulham star Tosin Adarabioyo won't be heading to AFCON.

It had been heavily speculated that the centre-back could switch international allegiances and join up with the Super Eagles for the tournament following captain William Troost-Ekong's retirement.

Tosin previously represented England at U16, U17, U18 and U19 level but has never featured for the Three Lions on a senior basis.

While he was recently criticised in the 3-1 defeat at Leeds, Chelsea have been light on the ground at times at the back this season and he remains an important part of the squad.

Losing him for the gruelling festive schedule would have been a blow, although it will come as no real surprise to those inside the club as Nigeria officials had recently poured cold water on suggestions Tosin could be handed a call-up.

A Nigerian national team source told OwnGoalNigeria earlier this month: ”No one has spoken to Tosin and no way will he be a part of a team which submitted the preliminary list without his name. He is a Nigerian and can always aspire to play for Nigeria but this time around he is not an option."