Youssouf Mulumbu has told his country he no longer wants to be considered for selection after claiming Congo’s football federation lacks professionalism. The 22-year-old, who has seven international caps to his name, was unable to prevent Congo being eliminated from the World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations qualifying stages earlier this year and has now called time on his international career – for the time being.
The former PSG man has been one of Albion’s most consistent performers since his summer switch from the French giants making 12 appearances and netting against Ipswich and Middlesbrough.
Despite his good form, Mulumbu claims the management within his country’s federation needs to be readdressed before he considers wearing a Congo shirt again.
“I do not want to play with Congo,” the battling midfielder said.
"This is not a rebellion, but I am simply bitter that our leaders and our federation sorely lacking professionalism.
"It is no longer possible to continue.
"I prefer to concentrate with my club, West Bromwich Albion.
"I have played 12 league games, scored twice and was named man of the match three times.
"Until something changes in the organisation of the national team, I will not return because it's too amateur.
"We are already out of the World Cup and African Cup of Nations next year. There is the next African Cup of Nations, in 2012, but we have no means and there are a lack of sponsors.
"We are heading towards oblivion.
"It is sad to see the state of Congo.
"Lots of people around are willing to help us and are qualified for that.
"But the federation will not listen - Congolese football is going straight into the wall."