On-loan Portsmouth midfielder Hassan Yebda is on the verge of representing Algeria.

Born in France, Yebda is eligible to represent the north African nation and will be given his chance when Algeria meets Rwanda on Saturday October 10.

Algeria currently sits on top of the Group C table in African qualifying and if they can overcome bottom-placed Rwanda, will book their place at South Africa 2010.

Yebda is on loan at Pompey from Portuguese club Benfica and is to start his first match for the first team against Wolves on Saturday after making two substitute appearances for the south coast club.

Yebda has represented France at U17 level.