Mosimane welcomes Mbokazi back but warns Bafana places must be earned

Pitso Mosimane has welcomed Mbekezeli ‘TLB’ Mbokazi back into the Bafana Bafana squad, praising the Chicago Fire defender’s attitude and energy while warning that no player is guaranteed a place in the team.

Mbokazi missed Mosimane’s first camp because of injury but has returned ahead of the upcoming African Cup Of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Kenya at Orlando Stadium.

Asked about his early impressions of Mbokazi away from his performances on the pitch, Mosimane said the defender had made a positive impression.

“No, good boy, good player, wants to play. Good mentality, good energy,” said the coach.

Mosimane also pointed to the effort required from South Africa’s overseas-based players, particularly those travelling long distances to join the national squad. He said the players had to adapt quickly because the team could not change its schedule to suit each individual.

“From what I saw on the games, the MLS players travel for one and a half days to be here. Time differences, and we don’t adjust our time to their time, because we are a group and they just come in and gel in properly. The MLS boys are focused, they show they come from a good environment.”

The coach said players returning from injury or an absence had to be given an opportunity, but added that their inclusion could not disregard those who had remained with the squad and contributed to its results.

Mosimane stresses competition

Mosimane said the return of several players had increased the options available to Bafana Bafana, but reminded them that their status would depend on their latest performances.

“We got talent back from injuries, so we also have to give him an opportunity to be with this group, because there was never a problem when he was around. So are the others, so is Lyle, so is Mbokazi, so is all these guys who were not around here, but they played well in the World Cup. So we need to give them an opportunity, but everyone knows that, as I said, you’re only as good as your last game.”

He also emphasised the importance of squad depth, especially when injuries prevent Bafana Bafana from regularly selecting the same players.

Mosimane said every position needed cover and that players returning to the squad had to understand the circumstances in which others had taken their places.

“If you are injured, we need to have somebody to play in your position. And also we need to encourage those who come and play to say, when those who are playing were on the pitch, the others were not playing.

“So when you are not coming back and the others are playing, you’ve got to be able to have the right mentality and understand what’s been happening, because otherwise then we don’t look at this thing right.”

He added that Bafana Bafana’s selection pool extended across the whole country and could not depend on a small group of established players.

“It means we’re saying, it’s better we lose when other people are not playing. No, everyone is in the national team and we have a pool of players to choose from. We choose from the whole country. So I can’t say I don’t have a certain player. Yes, the quality might not be the same, but we have the country to choose from.”