Bruce Buck’s Knickers in a Bunch?

As the African Cup of Nations draw closer, two EPL teams, Arsenal and Chelsea, are going to be without the services of  four Ivorians.  Arsenal’s defense will be weakened by the loss of Eboue and Kolo Toure, both players have factored prominently in Arsenal’s success this term and look to be a very important piece for success in the tournament.  Arsene Wenger and company have not been as loud mouthed about the loss of their African stars as their EPL counterpart at Stamford Bridge. Bruce Buck, Chelsea Chairman has hit out at FIFA asking them to help organize the crazy international schedule.  I have to admit the Cup at this juncture of the season is disruptive and puts many teams in a tough spot in case of injury or a player who returns in poor form.  Chelsea has a depth of African talent which probably explains why their cries are the loudest, but a quality organization like FIFA should be able to rein in countries like Africa, and to a lesser extent the US and get everyone on the same page when it comes to scheduling. 

-The Elephants group fixtures are as follows for the Cup: 

1/21:Nigeria

1/25:Benin

1/29:Mali 

I would wholeheartedly expect the team to take max points from the second and third game.  This makes the game against Nigeria pivotal as well as exciting. Nigeria, sporting the likes of Jon Obi Mikel, are a quality side with the ability to go deep in the tournament.  I am definitely looking forward to that game. If anyone has knowledge as to TV listings and schedules for these games please pass them along so I can post them for convenience.