Zimbabwe AFCON blow: Reading FC midfielder withdraws

With hours to go before the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) gets in motion, Zimbabwe have suffered a blow.

Reading FC midfielder Andy Rinomhota has pulled out from the Zimbabwe squad, a day before they face record champions Egypt.

Reading Chronicle website quoted a statement Rinomhota posted on his social media platforms.

The midfielder says he had to withdraw effective immediately due to an urgent family matter.

The statement reads: "I wish to inform the public that I have had to withdraw from the Zimbabwe Men's National Team camp, effective immediately, due to an urgent family matter that requires my full personal attention.

---- NIGERIA ONLY ----

"I am deeply gutted to miss out on a tournament of this magnitude. Representing Zimbabwe at the highest level has always been a source of pride, and while I was fully committed to this opportunity, the timing of this family matter means I am not in the right psychological space to give the team my very best.

"This decision has not been taken lightly. I remain fully committed to the national team and look forward to returning to duty once the family matter has been resolved.

"I would like to wish my teammates and the entire technical group the very best at the tournament. I will be supporting them wholeheartedly and praying that Zimbabwe goes all the way.I would like to thank the Zimbabwe Football Association for the opportunity and support they have given me.

"I respectfully request privacy for myself and my family during this period."

Zimbabwe coach Mario Marinica has not replaced the Reading FC man leaving him with Marvelous Nakamba, Jonah Fabisch, Prosper Padera, Tawanda Chirewa and Knowledge Musona as the midfield options.

The Zimbabwe Football Association confirmed the Reading midfielder's withdrawal.