The decision has been described as a major surprise for the 29-year-old forward, who had been a regular presence for his country before suffering a knee injury earlier in the season.

Wissa signed for Newcastle on deadline day in a 55-million-pound move from Brentford but has yet to feature for the Magpies.

Shortly after completing his transfer, he joined the DR Congo national team for the September international break, scoring a goal and registering an assist in a 4-1 win over South Sudan on 5 September.

He then played in a 3-2 defeat to Senegal, during which he sustained the knee injury that has kept him sidelined.

Early fears suggested a possible ACL issue, but Newcastle later confirmed he had avoided serious long-term damage.

Even so, his recovery has progressed more slowly than initially hoped, with reports of a minor setback during rehabilitation.

Had he been selected for AFCON, Premier League regulations would have prevented Newcastle from using him throughout the tournament.

“He (Wissa) had an 11 vs. 11 game this week while we were at Everton. He will have another one this week, and we will see where he is,” said Howe.

“There has been no change. He is working back, and he is doing well; everything is positive, but he will be back involved when we think he is able to contribute to the group and has a minimal chance of reinjury.”