Golden Arrows assistant coach Ashley Makhanya believes Thakasani Mbanjwa’s inclusion in Bafana Bafana’s preliminary squad is fully deserved after his consistent performances.
Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane recently announced his preliminary squad for next month’s two AFCON qualifying encounters against Benni McCarthy’s Kenya.
Mbanjwa was named alongside Ricardo Goss, Ronwen Williams and Sipho Chaine as one of four goalkeepers in the squad.
Makhanya also believes national team coaches should also consider other players who have been performing well and deserve a chance at international level.
“We are happy that a team like Golden Arrows with all these quality players, they deserve these call-ups, it’s on merit,” said Makhanya.
“We hope that we continue that they will continue to look at some of these players who play here at Bafana level.
“Last time, it was Van Neel who was in the preliminary squad and this time, it’s Mbanjwa.
“We hope that it continues, it’s about performance at the end of the day. If a guy performs at good tactical level, he’ll be selected, there’s chance that they will be selected.
“You don’t have to move to the so-called big club to be part of the national team.”