Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has remained coy on the absence of Gaston Sirino from their recent matchday squad.
Sirino last started for Sundowns in the DStv Premiership back in October with only three starts overall out of a possible 16 – a far cry from the insensible tag that was placed on him when Al Ahly came calling for his services.
While his talent and importance for Masandawana has been undeniable since his arrival, his absence from the team more particularly being completely left out during the win over Baroka this week – has drawn questions around his future.
But Mokwena refused to entertain the situation when iDiski Times probed his exclusion in the post-match press conference earlier this week.
“I don’t want us to dwell too much on Gaston and his unavailability today, I’d rather focus on the performances… what a performance from Andile Jali, he was fantastic,” Mokwena said.
“Andile ran his socks off, you saw in the 89th or 90th minute there was a counter-attack that he led – normally we know after that type of sprint, high-intensity run, there’s some form of muscular complications thereafter but he’s been unbelievable this season.
“There was a brilliant performance from Pitso [Mkhulise], very influential in our offensive schemes, very intensive and intention with the usage of the ball – and then, of course, Themba Zwane is special in the way he leads the front line.
“I’d like us to focus more on the players on the pitch and helping their team – we’ll speak about Gaston when the time is right but at this moment I’d appreciate not to comment on Gaston’s availability.”
Sundowns face Orlando Pirates next in the league on Friday evening at Loftus Versveld (19h30).
