Luther Singh welcomes South Africa return after five-year absence

Luther Singh says he is determined to make the most of his return to the South Africa national team after being recalled by new coach Pitso Mosimane.

The 29-year-old had been outside the squad for five years, even as Bafana Bafana qualified for major competitions and helped rebuild pride in South African football. He continued to hope for another opportunity to represent his country.

Singh’s form for AEL Limassol in Cyprus has brought that chance. Mosimane has monitored the forward’s progress and included him in the squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea, along with the international friendly against Egypt.

The player, who can operate in several attacking positions, said returning to international football remained a personal ambition throughout his absence.

“It’s a dream and an honour to be part of the national team, representing your country. I am grateful and happy to be back in the national team,” Singh told the media.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve been part of the national team, but the dream was always the same. The goal was always the same, to work hard and work smarter and change many things for me to be able to come represent my country again.

“I am just grateful that I got another opportunity to be here and I will grab it with both hands because the opportunity came again. We will continue to work and see after this.”

Singh also acknowledged that regaining a regular place in the side will be difficult. South Africa’s attacking options include Oswin Appollis, Relebohile Mofokeng, Thapelo Maseko and Cassius Mailula, all of whom are possible starters.

With competition for places strong, Singh said the progress made by the national team during his absence had encouraged him rather than discouraged him.

“We need to look and be honest and realistic,” he said. “For the past few years, the national team has been doing very well. The players that were there represented the country very good, so we need to say this and be realistic.

“For me, it motivated me to keep going and to keep believing. I had the hope and belief that one day maybe I will get a chance again.”

Singh now has the opportunity to remind South African supporters of his qualities as he seeks to establish himself again under Mosimane.