Luther Singh’s AEL Limassol form earns Bafana Bafana recall

Luther Singh’s progress at AEL Limassol has been rewarded with a return to the South Africa squad, with the winger’s development in Cyprus backed by former Cyprus international Nikki Papavasiliou.

Singh, 29, has captained AEL in each of his three matches for the club and has continued to build his reputation since moving to Cyprus two years ago.

South Africa manager Pitso Mosimane has included him in the squad for the upcoming FIFA dates, when Bafana Bafana will face Guinea, Eritrea and Egypt.

Papavasiliou, who was born in Limassol, believes Mosimane’s decision reflects Singh’s performances for AEL.

“I believe Pitso has done his homework in deciding on Luther because of what he is doing here,” he said.

Papavasiliou played as a left-winger for English Premier League club Newcastle United under Kevin Keegan during the 1993/94 season. He has since worked as a coach in Cyprus, Greece, Slovakia, Egypt and Czechia.

He has also worked closely with Singh in Limassol, helping the player with additional individual training.

“I worked with the boy while doing his individual extras because I’m in the same city as him here when in Cyprus,” Papavasiliou said.

“We worked on some aspects of his game.

“So, I talk from being well informed when I say he is a top guy and the beauty is that the people here love him.

“He is effective and a fantastic boy who now stands as a key player for AEL.”

Singh’s influence has extended beyond his performances on the pitch, with his appointment as captain highlighting his standing within the club.

“To become a captain at this club is not easy, so credit to him for earning that appointment,” Papavasiliou added.

“It is proof and reward for what he has done for the club.”

Papavasiliou said Singh had become an important figure both in the dressing room and during matches, while praising his attacking contribution from the left.

“He has become influential in the team not just in the dressing room as a leader but on the field too,” he said.

“This club is lucky to have a player like him.

“They are using him from the left flank, and he finds space to cut in, take players on and score goals.”

Papavasiliou also welcomed the attention from Mosimane, saying Singh’s form had come in a league whose clubs compete in the group stages of European club competitions.

“I’m glad that Pitso is taking interest in a player who is performing in Cyprus because this is a league with clubs in the group stages of European club competitions,” he said.