Watford are still expected to lose several players to the African Cup of Nations, despite claims that the tournament could be postponed.

Rumours surfaced on Tuesday, amid concerns over infrastructure in host nation Cameroon, but a press release from the organising body Confederation of African Football makes no mention of postponement or cancellation.

The release followed a meeting of CAF's Executive Committee on Monday and raised some concerns over "sanitary matters" as well as areas that they believe need "urgent attention".

However, the tournament is still fully expected to go ahead as planned.

The statement reads: "The Executive Committee received a comprehensive report from the CAF Organising Committee delegation led by Vice President Augustin Senghor and General Secretary, Veron Mosengo-Omba, who recently visited Cameroon.

"The Executive Committee noted the report and the progress made so far.

"The EXCO emphasised the need to make follow-ups with the local organising committee on the areas that still need some urgent attention ahead of the kick-off on January 9, 2022.

"On the Africa Cup of Nations and COVID-19 situation and preparations for the supporters, the EXCO raised some sanitary matters that will be part of the on-going discussions between CAF and the Cameroon Government."

Watford could lose up to five players between then end of December and the beginning of February, with Ismaila Sarr, Imran Louza, Adam Masina, William Troost-Ekong and Emmanuel Dennis all eligible for selection.

New defender Nicolas Nkoulou will not be taking part in the tournament after retiring from international football.

Should those five players depart, the Hornets would have more players missing because of the tournament than any other team in the Premier League.

Crystal Palace and Arsenal could both lose four players each, while Aston Villa, Leicester City and Liverpool could all lose three squad members.