Mosimane backed over Zwane recall for Bafana Bafana qualifiers

Pitso Mosimane’s decision to include 37-year-old Themba Zwane in the Bafana Bafana squad for their next two Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers has been supported by former Kaizer Chiefs coach Sergios Dos Santos.

Mosimane, who has recently returned as Bafana Bafana head coach, has faced accusations of favouritism over Zwane’s selection and his decision to make the midfielder one of the team’s captains.

Zwane’s football intelligence and experience are not in question, but his call-up has prompted debate because of his limited playing time for Mamelodi Sundowns this season.

The Tembisa-born player has made five appearances in all competitions since the campaign began and is currently finding it difficult to start regularly for the club. His age and fitness levels also mean he is no longer able to play 90 minutes consistently.

Dos Santos said Mosimane may have selected Zwane primarily for the immediate challenges facing the national team, rather than because he plans to use him for every minute of both matches.

“At the moment, I suppose Pitso is focusing on the two upcoming games. Zwane is a very experienced player, and I’m not surprised, to an extent, that he’s been brought back into the squad,” Dos Santos told KickOff.

“But his inclusion doesn’t mean anything; he might be brought into the squad but not necessarily play. He might not be used, or he might be there for influence.

“He is well-known and experienced, so I don’t think it’s a bad decision. Let’s wait and see what he [Mosimane] plans to do with him.”

Zwane’s role will become clearer when South Africa begin their qualifying campaign against Guinea on Saturday. Bafana Bafana then face Eritrea next Wednesday.

South Africa are also scheduled to play a friendly against Egypt on 4 October.