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The Aston Villa boss believes his team will cope without the Ghana frontman during the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations early next year.

Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce is convinced his side have enough quality to cope without striker Jordan Ayew, who will likely depart for international duty early next year.

Ayew is one of three Villa players who could be away for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations which runs between January 14 and February 5 in Gabon.

Compatriot Albert Adomah could be whisked away as well - although that looks unlikely as the 28-year-old has not featured for the Black Stars since 2015 - but Jonathan Kodjia is almost a sure bet with Cote d'Ivoire barring any last minute injury.

"That’s a big disadvantage because straight away, you’re looking at Jordan Ayew andJonathan Kodjia - where we’re arguably most creative and we’re scoring goals," Bruce said on Friday.

"We have to adapt. We knew when we were signing them that the tournament was in January, so we have to adapt and people like Ross McCormack, Gabby Agbonlahor – there are two names in particular who can fill in.

"Any Championship team would be delighted to bring in those two with the quality they have.

"They’re both working extremely hard, both working on their fitness levels and it may be time in January for them to show their colours."

Ayew joined Villa in 2015, netting seven goals in the Premier League in his maiden season.

He has, however, not been as sharp in front of goal this campaign, having been on the scoresheet twice in 17 league matches.

 
Ghana will play Egypt, Uganda and Mali in Group D of the Afcon.