Porto set to axe Mbemba over his age

PORTO look set to axe former Newcastle United defender Chancel Mbemba over suggestions he is 31 years old rather than 27.

The date of birth ‘scandal’ as it is being reported, is not a new revelation after an investigation into Mbemba’s age in 2013.

The former Newcastle defender took bone tests to prove his year of birth was 1994, but now it is claimed he told friends he was born in 1990.

Anderlecht – the club he was registered with prior to arriving at St James’ Park – had registered his birth year as 1994 – hence his age of 27.

Newcastle were ‘relaxed about the controversy’ and Mbemba himself dismissed the allegations as “defamatory” and made up.

He said: “I have given evidence to Anderlecht to make sure they are not taking any risks.

“I even passed scientific tests to determine my exact age. In Africa, when people do not have money, they are ready to invent anything to make money.”

However, that has not stopped the allegations resurfacing.

Porto are now refusing to extend Mbemba’s contract beyond the summer over fears he is older than he claims to be.

During the 2013 investigation, a member of the Congolese Football Federation claimed Mbemba’s birth year was changed to 1991 in order for him to play London 2012 Olympic Games - classing him as an under-23 player.

As a result, Mbemba had to take physical tests to prove his age which proved he would be 27 years old now.

He said in 2015: “I had bone tests done and, as me and my friends all know, the results prove what my age is.

“I just go out and play football, no misinformation.

“A lot has been said about my birthdate and the different ages. I have proved exactly what the truth is.

“People in Africa know, me and my family, friends and anyone who knows Chancel Mbemba knows I was born on August 8 1994. That is all that matters.

“Sometimes in Africa when people see someone doing well they try to bring them down or harm they career.

“I am not that kind of person, I have my friends and family and I don’t have any harmful thoughts in my heart or in my head.

“All that should matter to people is what I do on the pitch.”