Baggies star to boycott country
Youssouf Mulumbu handed Albion a boost today when he quit international football.
Youssouf Mulumbu handed Albion a boost today when he quit international football.
]The midfielder has apparently walked out on DR Congo after launching a scathing attack on his country's football federation.
In an interview in France, the 22-year-old claims he will not return to play for his country unless there are major changes in the set-up, although he insists he has not completely retired.
The news will come as a boost for Baggies head coach Roberto Di Matteo as Mulumbu will be spared gruelling journeys to Africa for the duration of his self-imposed exile.
He has emerged as a key figure in the club's promising start to the Championship promotion campaign.
"I talked in Paris on Sunday to coach Patrice Neveu, with whom I maintain a good relationship," said Mulumbu. "I do not want to play with Congo.
"This is not a rebellion, but I am simply bitter that our leaders and our federation sorely lacking professionalism. It is no longer possible to continue.
"I prefer to concentrate with my club, West Bromwich Albion.
"Until something changes in the organisation of the national team, I will not return because it's too amateur."
