Simba SC captain Rushine Re Reuck has opened up about not giving up on his dream to make a return to Bafana Bafana again after his great form in Tanzania.
De Reuck, 30, has endured an injury-laden career and subsequent lack of game time but has since found fitness and his groove back with the Tanzanian giants he joined two seasons ago.
The last time the defender was with Bafana Bafana was in 2022 while still on the books of Mamelodi Sundowns. He has been capped 17 times.
His coach Steve Barker has also spoken publicly about De Reuck still having something to offer in the national team citing the player’s consistency and leadership at Simba among other qualities.
De Reuck spoke to iDiski Times journalist Lethabo Kganyago in edition 276 of the newspaper where he admitted he also believes there is still space for him the national team.
He added that though it’s ultimately coach Pitso Mosimane’s decision, he is realistic looking at the squad but still strongly feels he has unfinished business at international level.
“I won’t say it’s a sensitive topic, but I do [believe there’s space in Bafana team],” De Reuck told iDiski Times.
“I really do, but it’s not up to me. I still feel like I’ve got the capacity to compete at that level, but I also know it’s not easy. I mean, the players that are playing in the national team currently are probably one of the best groups we’ve had in a long time. So, this is something I’m going to have to understand as well.
“It’s important for me that no matter what happens, I’ve got ambition to play, of course, but if it is that I don’t, it’s okay. I still have a contract with Simba; I still have to do my best but definitely, if it happens, it will feel like a dream again.
“I still feel like I have unfinished business with the national team. I didn’t stop playing for Bafana because of bad performances; it was because of injuries, you know, those types of things. Life happened, and I’m up again. I’m doing my best, and hopefully, if there’s an opportunity, I’ll be ready. 100%, it’s a dream. Although I have played for Bafana before, I still feel like I’ve got the capacity to play.
“You have to be realistic; like if people are doing well, you have to give them credit. All of the players Coach Pitso has called up are all doing well and deserve to be there, but that’s not going to discourage me. I’m going to continue working hard.
“If ever he looks at me, the proof is there; anything is possible. I just have to stay consistent. I’m very hopeful”