Tresor Mputu Mabi has been included in the DR Congo squad to play Senegal in an African Cup of Nations Cup qualifier on 3 September.

TP Mazembe striker Mputu Mabi is serving a one-year Fifa suspension which expires on 11 August.

He was sanctioned by the world body after he was found guilty of attacking the referee during the 2010 East and Central Africa Challenge Cup.

His team mate Guy Lusadisu got an 11-month ban from the game.

Mputu Mabi is among a 26-man squad announced by coach Robert Nouzaret - testament to the striker's exalted status in the DR Congo.

The 2009 African Footballer of the Year (local) has been training with his club during his Fifa-imposed exile.

Nouzaret insists that Mputu Mabi's qualities opened the door for him to walk straight back into the national team despite his enforced absence.

"Our intention is to discuss with him so that we understand his intentions," Nouzaret said.

"Despite his suspension, his qualities oblige us to take into consideration his value to us."

The Congolese will play a friendly against The Gambia on 10 August - a day before Mputu Mabi's suspension ends.

They will then travel to Senegal for a clash with the Teranga Lions as the race for places at next year's continental finals heats up.