Boufal to head off after Everton

Boufal has been named in the Morocco squad for the upcoming 2017 Africa Cup of Nations finals, which will take place in Gabon.

The competition runs until February 5th, and while Puel says he’ll be disappointed to lose Boufal, he believes he has the players to step up in his place.

“We know that he will leave for Morocco after the game on 2nd January against Everton,” Puel said at his press conference on Thursday, as Saints prepare for the game against West Bromwich Albion.

“It’s an important competition for Sofiane, and for us it is a little bit difficult of course.

“It’s a normality though and we cannot do anything, and it’s important for us that we respect this.

“We will find other solutions.

“For example, Dušan [Tadić] can come back with a good level, fit and can bring for the team all of his qualities.”