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Cardiff City will be without defender Bruno Manga for at least two matches in the New Year as he has been called up by his national side to play in the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.

Manga was named in Gabon's 23-man squad for the tournament alongside Sunderland midfielder Ibrahim Ndong and Borussia Dortmund star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

The 28-year-old has been a regular starter for his national side over the past few years, and Bluebirds boss Neil Warnock will not be shocked by his absence.

However, in recent weeks, Manga has performed well in the centre of defence during the enforced absence of Sol Bamba after his altercation at Ispwich earlier this month.

(Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency)

Despite his excellent performances, Warnock has made it no secret he wants to offload Manga in the January transfer window as he looks to free up some room on the wage bill to bring in new recruits.

Manga is one of the highest earners at Cardiff City, and with financial fair play to consider, Warnock has made it clear that he wants to utilise the money from the sale of Manga to strengthen his squad with lower earners.

The Africa Cup of Nations begins in Gabon on January 14 as the 16 best sides in Africa compete across three weeks for the trohpy.

With Manga expected to leave the club in January, it remains to be seen if he will still be a Cardiff City player when he steps out for Gabon in their opening AFCON match on January 14.