Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos feels Teboho Mokoena was sending a message to Mamelodi Sundowns with his performance and hopes all can be resolved at club level.
The 2022/23 Premier Soccer League Footballer of the Season has been left out of the Sundowns matchday squad for five games ahead of the FIFA international break.
Starting with the opening game of the league as they beat SuperSport United in the Tshwane Derby, with suggestions of being punished alongside Khuliso Mudau.
While Mudau returned for a cameo in the win over Kaizer Chiefs, Mokoena remained out in the cold, but Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi, insists both remain integral parts of their plans for the campaign.
While Broos expressed his concern over the situation, he felt his two goals in the Man of the Match display beating Congo Brazzaville 5-0 was a signal of intent from the midfielder.
“I know Teboho for more than two years, I think he had his first selection when I became coach and the progression Teboho made in the last two years has been enormous, he became a very, very good player,” Broos said.
“I know maybe today he was extra motivated to show his coach at Sundowns that it was not right to put him on the bench or select him. So, this is what I like, not words, not talking, just a performance.
“When I said a few days ago that I have to accept and respect that position, but I can’t agree, I think today proved why I can’t agree that he’s not playing at Sundowns. But okay it’s not our problem.
“Also, Khuliso I always put my full confidence in those players, I know who they are, I know how good they are, how important they are for the team. I pray to God that Sundowns change their mind and that the guys get opportunities to play again.
“In the long term, if the situation [persists], long-term it will have to be… I will have to take decisions that I don’t like to make, and let’s hope that doesn’t happen.”
Mokoena has racked up eight goals with three assists in 37 caps for the senior national team since making his debut in March 2018.
