Tottenham Hotspur and Jose Mourinho have been handed a major boost with confirmation that the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations tournament has been postponed.
Originally next year's competition was being moved back to its winter date.
The tournament was moved to the summer months following a decision by their executive committee in 2017, but after just one competition, it will now return to its original January-February format.
But not until January 2022.
This is because thee 33rd edition of the tournament which was due to begin in Cameroon on January 9, 2021, has now been pushed back by 12 months.
All of which is down to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic across the continent which has also seen this summer's European Championships pushed back.
A statement reads: "After consultation with stakeholders and taking into consideration the current global situation, the tournament has been rescheduled for January 2022.
"The date for the final tournament and the remaining matches of the qualifiers will be communicated in due course."
Meanwhile, CAF president Ahmad Ahmad said: "The CAF Executive Committee is satisfied with t the Cameroonian authorities for their commitment towards the hosting of the two competitions. Cameroon is ready to host either competition and are within schedule."
This decision his great news for Mourinho as Serge Aurier won't be departing midway through next season.
The defender is a regular for the Ivory Coast and almost certainly would have been selected for the tournament barring a loss of form or a serious injury.
Whilst Aurier has his issues defensively, a lack of competition for his place at right-back means he could be very important for Mourinho next season.
That's unless the Portuguese tactician dips into the transfer market for cover or a replacement.
But the knowledge that Aurier will be available for the entire 2020/21 campaign just might alter Mourinho's plans this summer.
