Such are the issues, Morocco refused to host the competition over concerns about the potential for the spread of the Ebola virus.
They wouldn't hold it ... so they were kicked out of the competition ... and they say they have no regrets.
Chiek Tiote (Ivory Coast) and Papiss Demba Cisse (Senegal) could also be going to the African Cup of Nations.
Mehdi Abeid was called up by Algeria for the first time after forcing his way into Alan Pardew’s starting XI and he is happy to travel to Africa ... wherever it is played.
The Confederation of African Football is set to reveal which country will host the tournament instead of Morocco.
Abeid could make his senior debut in the qualifier against Ethiopia.
Mehdi Abeid (talking to the Gazette): “It’s my first time with the senior national team.
“I’m really happy I’ve been called up. It’s great for me.
“I have a chance, and I will try to do my best, but the most important thing to is play for Newcastle. We will see what will be.
“I want to impose myself here, and then think of my national team. My first thought is to play a lot of games for Newcastle.”