Monnapule Saleng’s return gives Mamelodi Sundowns added lift – Carelse

Former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Brent Carelse believes Monnapule Saleng’s return to first-team training has strengthened the club ahead of Saturday’s MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates.

Saleng has not played for Sundowns this season after spending an extended period training away from the senior squad. His absence followed alleged disciplinary issues, which head coach Miguel Cardoso discussed at the start of the campaign.

The 28-year-old was also left out of Sundowns’ pre-season tour of Austria, a decision that attracted attention. Cardoso subsequently suggested that Saleng had found it difficult to integrate into the Masandawana group and its dressing-room dynamics.

The former Pirates attacker returned to training with The Brazilians a few weeks ago. Members of the media filmed him working with the rest of the squad at Chloorkop on Wednesday morning, as Sundowns prepared to face Pirates in the MTN8 final.

Carelse says the winger’s availability is a positive development for both Saleng and the Tshwane club.

“That’s good for him personally and good for the team. I think he’s a player we need, he’s got a lot of creativity and the fans obviously like him, they obviously would like to see him playing,” Carelse told KickOff.

Saleng’s return could give Cardoso another attacking option, although it remains unclear whether he will be included in the match-day squad for the final.

“So, hopefully he will get back into the squad and back into the field as quickly as possible. But we’re excited to see him come back again,” Carelse added.

The former SuperSport United midfielder also backed Saleng to play against his former club if he is considered fit and selected for the contest.

“Yes, why not? I think if he’s fit enough and he can do something for the team, yes definitely,” he said.

“I think players who play against their former clubs always have a point to prove or want to perform well, so it can be a good plus for Sundowns.”

Saleng joined Sundowns after his spell with Pirates, but has yet to make an appearance for the club this season. His possible involvement in the MTN8 final would therefore mark his return to competitive action at a significant stage of the campaign.