MOUSSA Djenepo is in line to make his first appearance for Mali since signing for Saints.

Djenepo is currently away with the Mali national side who begin their Africa Cup of Nations campaign against Mauritania tonight [9pm].

The 20-year-old completed his £14m move from Belgian side Standard Liege to Saints on a four-year deal last week.

Should the attacker play tonight, it will mark his 10th appearance on the international stage.

Having initially been selected for the Under-20s in 2017, his talent was quickly recognised, and he earned a promotion to the senior side.

Djenepo’s full debut came during a 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Ivory Coast.

The game ended goalless, but that was just the start of his journey with Mali.

Saints’ newest addition played a key role in helping the Eagles qualify for this summer’s Africa Cup of Nations, which is taking place in Egypt.

Djenepo netted his maiden international goal in a qualifier for the tournament against South Sudan back in March.

Mali, who topped their qualifying group to book their spot in the African tournament, will be strong favourites to start their quest for glory with a win tonight.

In the 26 matches they’ve played against Mauritania, Djenepo’s side have come out on top 16 times, losing on just four occasions.

Despite their impressive record against tonight’s opponents, the two teams haven’t met since an international friendly back in 2002, which ended in a 2-0 victory for Mali.

Djenepo is likely to be a late arrival for Saints’ pre-season, as his availability depends on how far the Eagles go in this summer’s tournament.

The rest of Ralph Hasenhuttl’s squad will begin their preparations for the upcoming Premier League campaign at the beginning of July.

And given that the Africa Cup of Nations isn’t until the 19 July, it could be another month before the 20-year-old meets his new Saints teammates.