Zaha named in Ivory Coast preliminary AFCON squad

Wilfried Zaha has been called up to Ivory Coast's provisional squad for the Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon.

The Crystal Palace winger's international future has been the subject of debate in recent weeks, the 24-year-old having become frustrated with a lack of opportunities for England.

Zaha has two caps for England, both of which came in friendlies, and boss Gareth Southgate said this month he was hopeful of convincing the former Manchester United player to commit to the Three Lions.

However, Zaha - born in Abidjan - has been added to Michel Dussuyer's preliminary plans for the tournament next month, suggesting a final decision over his future has been made.

United defender Eric Bailly is also in the squad despite a lack of playing time since he suffered a knee injury in October. Paris Saint-Germain full-back Serge Aurier is also included.

Ivory Coast, the defending champions, meet Togo in their opening Group C game on January 16 before matches against DR Congo and Morocco.