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Cape Town - AFC Bournemouth striker Benik Afobe has revealed that he was unable to take part in the World Cup qualifiers during the recently completed international break because the English Football Association erred when completing his paperwork.
The 23-year-old represented England at youth level and even has two caps for the U21 team, but has opted to represent DR Congo - the country of his parents - at senior level.
Afobe was hopeful of making his debut for DRC during last week's World Cup qualifier against Guinea, but an administrative error on behalf of the FA left him frustrated.
"Basically, the FA sent my paperwork to the wrong Congo," Afobe told BBC Radio Solent.
"Transferring it took about 10 days and once FIFA had cleared their workload with all the internationals on around the world, it was the day after the World Cup qualifier against Guinea.
"But, in order for me to get used to the squad and the conditions, it was worth making the trip and the team won 2-1.
"I was disappointed not to play at the time, but the main thing is returning to the club injury-free. Club always comes before country and, right now, I want to be available for Bournemouth as much as possible."
The next objective for Afobe at international level is to secure a spot in the squad for next year's Africa Cup of Nations, although he is far from a guaranteed inclusion based on current form.
The former Arsenal academy product has spent just 129 minutes on the field for the Cherries in the Premier League, and hasn't found the back of the net yet.
