Following new Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos’ strong words about reviving the national team squad, here are some of the older players who could be axed by the Belgian tactician.
Broos said at his unveiling press conference that he wants to build a new team and was surprised to see so many players over 30 in recent Bafana squads.
“I was a little bit surprised when I saw the selections of the last games that there were so many players of the age of 30 and more,” he explained.
“I think we have to rebuild the team and build a younger team. I can give you the example of Cameroon. I did the same there, I worked with young players. Young players are motivated and hungry.
“I myself was a player, when you reach 30 you know motivation is less. After South Africa did not qualify for AFCON next year, this is the moment to rebuild the team.”
So which players could be dropped?
Bafana indeed have several players of the age of 30 years and older, with former captain Itumeleng Khune and SuperSport United striker Bradley Grobler, who currently leads the DStv Premiership Golden Shoe ranking, being the oldest of the previous selection.
Khune last featured for Bafana in a 1-1 draw with Nigeria in November 2018, but had been recalled to Molefi Ntseki’s recent squad, although he remained an unused substitute.
Grobler’s national team career spans over almost 10 years already, but he has only featured in national team colours 12 times, including the last three games. His last goal dates back to 15 November 2016.
Even long-term pillars of the team such as captain Thulani Hlatshwayo, Dean Furman or Andile Jali – another player, who was recently called up after a long Bafana absence – could potentially not factor much in Broos’ plans.
Here all 30+ players of the recent Bafana squads
Itumeleng Khune – 33 years
Bradley Grobler – 33 years
Dean Furman – 32 years
Ruzaigh Gamildien – 32 years
Thulani Hlatshwayo – 31 years
Sifiso Hlanti – 31 years
Thulani Serero – 31 years
Themba Zwane – 31 years
Thabang Monare – 31 years
Kermit Erasmus – 30 years
Ben Motshwari – 30 years
Veli Mothwa – 30 years
Lebogang Manyama – 30 years
Kamohelo Mokotjo – 30 years
