Poggenpoel says Bafana call-ups are based on form, not club reputation

Bafana Bafana midfielder Brooklyn Poggenpoel believes players do not need to represent one of the Premier Soccer League’s biggest clubs to earn international recognition.

The Durban City player rejected the idea that membership of Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates or Kaizer Chiefs is required for a place in the national team.

“I think everybody has got a fair chance in the league,” Poggenpoel told Sowetan. “The coach has given debuts to so many players in the last camp, so I don’t think it’s which club you play for [that determines a Bafana call-up]. It’s just about performances at club level because everybody gets a fair look.”

Poggenpoel, 27, made his Bafana debut in a 5-0 victory over Eritrea in an Afcon qualifier in Cairo late in September.

He entered the match as a substitute, replacing the injured Bathusi Aubaas.

The occasion was difficult personally for Poggenpoel, whose maternal grandfather was being mourned. His grandfather was laid to rest in Cape Town on the same day Bafana defeated Eritrea.

Poggenpoel said he had been forced to put his grief to one side to fulfil his international responsibilities.

“It is an honour and privilege to be representing your country. Everything happening in your personal life you just have to put it aside,” he said.

“You are not representing yourself but your nation. You just have to put your best foot forward.”

Bafana remain top of Group D in the Afcon qualifiers after victories over Guinea and Eritrea during the last Fifa break.

South Africa will seek to keep their place at the summit when they meet Benni McCarthy’s Kenya in two successive Group D matches.

The first fixture is scheduled for Orlando Stadium on Friday, with the return match taking place in Nairobi four days later. Both games kick off at 6pm.

Poggenpoel said the squad’s aim was to build on their positive start by collecting maximum points at home before producing another strong performance in Kenya.

“Everyone wanted a strong start to the group stages, especially at home,” he said. “To get the win away [in Cairo against Eritrea] was another positive.”

“So now it is about securing three points at home and following it up with a good result away so we can go into the next break with good form, good rhythm and at the top of the group.”