City boss Tony Pulis has confirmed that striker Mamady Sidibe will be joining up with the Malian national team ahead of this month's African Cup of Nations tournament.

Sidibe had been heavily contemplating not returning to Africa following the near-fatal injuries he received during a riot that took place at the end of his countries game against Togo back in October.

The striker's family had been split about whether he should take part in the tournament, and with Mama's decision to travel now confirmed, he is set to miss several games for the Potters.

"Mama wants to go and we can't stop him playing for his country," Pulis told Stoke City World following the draw against Hull City.

"We're not sure yet whether he will be available for Sunday's game.

"We should find out in the next few days exactly what his schedules are."

"We're obviously disappointed to lose him, but it will create a chance for somebody else to come in and stake a claim for a first team spot."

Mali have been drawn in Group B for the Ghana-based competition, and will open their campaign against Benin on Monday 21^st January.

They then face Nigeria on Friday 25^th January before playing the last game of the group stages, against the Ivory Coast, on Tuesday 29^th January.

If Mali progress to the quarter finals, they will play again on Sunday 3^rd February with the final on Sunday 10^th February if they progress that far.