Watford winger Ismaila Sarr in Barcelona as Senegal hope for injury boost during AFCON campaign

Watford winger Ismaila Sarr is currently working with a knee specialist in Barcelona in the hope he can play for Senegal in the knockout stages of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Sarr has been out of action since November after injuring his knee ligaments during a win over Manchester United.

Originally it had been thought the 23-year-old would not be called up by Senegal, but they have activated their right to do so.

Sarr is now in Barcelona and he is working with a knee specialist as he undergoes a rehabilitation programme.

The hope is the winger could recover in time to be fit for the knockout stages of the Africa Cup of Nations, which is taking place in Cameroon this month.

A statement from The Senegalese Football Federation said: “The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) informs that player Ismaila Sarr is currently in Barcelona (Spain) for long-scheduled check-ups to assess the progress of his injury. These reviews show a positive development.

“After discussions with his surgeon, Watford medical staff, FSF medical staff and the player, it was agreed that Ismaila Sarr would undergo a rehabilitation program with a view to returning to the field.

“This program was mutually agreed upon two weeks after which he will return to the camp.

“He is expected in the camp in Cameroon immediately after.

“Close daily monitoring will be done in order to assess the player’s progress. Until then, the FSF will keep the player’s opinion regularly updated.”