Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has addressed the lack of game-time for defender Fawaaz Basadien.
The Bafana Bafana left-back joined Masandawana from Stellenbosch in this transfer window, adding to an already stacked position that includes Aubrey Modiba, Devine Lunga, Asekho Tiwani, and Thato Sibiya.
He has seen limited action, making just four total appearances—with three starts among those—across all competitions.
Cardoso explained that due to the team’s busy schedule, the team isn’t training much, which would see get an opportunity to impress in training. He then assured that the 28-year-old will get his turn to play.
“Fawaaz has no problems, the problems of Fawaaz are the same that Divine Lunga, Aubrey Modiba, Thato Sibiya and Asekho Tiwani have,” said Cardoso.
“That made us to send Terrence Mashego out on loan because of the quality we have in that position. As much as we believe a lot in Fawaaz, we also believe in Aubrey, Divine. Fawaaz will also have his moments.
“Today [on Saturday against Durban City], he was on the bench, he didn’t play. He just didn’t play because I had to decide which players that were probably the best to [play today].
“If I had one or two more substitutions, he would have gone in, also [Thapelo] Maseko. So, there will be moments for Fawaaz to play, we are happy with his work.”
“Of course, we always demand more and he’s adapting towards what we want. Also, we don’t train a lot, which would give him an opportunity to show himself consistently.
“But there will be a moment for him to play, let’s hope it doesn’t happen when someone has gotten injured but naturally, he has his opportunity.”
Basadien will be hoping to get a run when Sundowns visit Golden Arrows in the Betway Premiership match on Wednesday at King Zwelithini Stadium.
