AFCON-bound duo in Premier League best XI

Two Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)-bound footballers have made the Premier League team of the past weekend.

Mozambican left-back Reinildo Mandava and Ivorian midfielder Ibrahim Sangare earned a place in the starting XI.

Premier League legend Alan Shearer selects the team based on his assessment of the players’ performance.

The Newcastle United veteran explained why he picked the AFCON-bound duo in the week’s best team.

Speaking to Premier League media, Shearer explained why Sangare deserved the recognition.

“Had to be in my team. He ran the show in midfield, providing two assists before scoring with a stunning strike,” the legend said.

Alan Shearer justifies selection

The former England forward cited Mandava’s displays for Sunderland in their 1-0 victory over Newcastle as being outstanding.

“Newcastle’s attackers had no joy down Reinildo’s flank. He nullified Anthony Elanga, who didn’t get a sniff,” Shearer told the Premier League website.

Shearer’s best X: Bernd Leno, Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, Dan Ballard, Harry Wilson, Morgan Rogers, Hugo Ekitike, Sangare, Mandava and Erling Haaland.