Since Egypt defeated Ghana in the 2010 final, there have been eight AFCON tournaments that produced seven different winning nations.

The exception was Ivory Coast, who conquered Africa in 2015 after a penalty shootout with Ghana and triumphed again last year, coming from behind at home to edge Nigeria.

It is difficult to imagine the Ivorians not progressing to the knockout stage, and Fae is upbeat while answering critics of several selections.

The exclusions of Villarreal forward Nicolas Pepe and Sunderland winger Simon Adingra were at the forefront of media criticism.

"If we were to consider only the sporting aspect, he (Pepe) would be with us," said Fae, a 41-year-old former Ivory Coast midfielder.

"To make a list, you have to take into account many factors, both on and off the field. All these factors have led to Nico not being on the list."

Turning to Adingra, Fae said: "Simon is struggling to earn a starting spot at Sunderland. We had to do without his qualities when making our selection."