by Graeme Jackson

The news that Bournemouth striker Benik Afobe has been called up to DR Congo’s squad for their 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers away to Angola later this month adds further depth to a Leopards team which is able to call on stars from major European leagues.DRC coach Florent Ibenge’s extended squad of 32 players includes no less than five players based in the Premier League, with Afobe joined by Crystal Palace winger Yannick Bolasie, Norwich City duo Dieumeric Mkbokani and Youssouf Mulumbu, as well as Newcastle United defender Chancel Mbemba.In addition, the Leopards squad features Cedric Bakambu from Spanish La Liga side Villareal, Paul Jose Mpoku from Italian Serie A club Chievo and a number of players based in France’s Ligue 1, including Riffi Mandanda, Marcel Tisserand, Chris Mavinga and Jordan Nkololo.Ibenge’s selection also includes players from top leagues in Portugal, Belgium, Turkey, Switzerland, the MLS in America, Qatar, England’s Championship, as well as Chikito Lema at Raja Casablanca and selection of local-based players from continental powerhouses such as TP Mazembe (the reigning African club champions) and AS Vita.Afobe, who is still eligible to play for England, will need his switch of international allegiance approved by FIFA before he can turn out for the Leopards, but the 23-year-old holds DRC citizenship through his parents and has not represented the Three Lions at senior level.