Frederic Kanoute could miss Tottenham's entire Christmas period as well as matches at the start of Januray after receving a call up for the African Nations Cup. Kanoute, who is the leading goalscorer at the club with six this season has made appearances for the French under-21 side, but could be tempted by a call-up from Mali, and is eligible to play for them due to a UEFA ruling that allows players who have never played full internationals to switch nations. If accepted, Kanoute could miss the fixtures against Portsmouth, Fulham, Charlton and Birmingham plus one, or possibly two, FA cup ties. However, Kanoute is rumoured to still be holding out for a spot in the French side, and recent performances can only have aided his prospects.