Broos confirms Foster is out for start of Bafana World Cup qualifiers

Hugo Broos has confirmed that Lyle Foster will not be selected by Bafana Bafana as he continues to get support back in England over issues with his mental health.

The striker has scored three goals in eight Premier League appearances for Burnley in the English Premier League this season, but has missed the last three games of the campaign.

Hugo Broos said he had spoken to his compatriot Vincent Kompany, the Burnley head coach about the situation.

“I was a bit surprised that Lyle didn’t play in the last three games and I contacted the club and coach,” said Broos on Friday, as he named his 23-man squad for 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda.

Bafana will play Benin at home on November 18 and Rwanda away on November 21.

“Lyle for the moment has a serious medical problem. The team asked us not to give further comment on that, and respect the privacy of Lyle and his family in the next weeks. We hope he recovers as soon as possible, but it is impossible for him to be in camp (now).”

‘Love and support’

On Thursday Burnley released a statement on Foster that said:

“On behalf of Lyle Foster and his family, they have asked us to share with you an update on Lyle’s illness.

“Recently, Lyle let us know that he continues to live with issues around his mental wellbeing and has reached out for help. “He is currently in the care of specialists – giving him the support and care he needs to help him back to full health.

“With the love and support of his family and everyone at Burnley Football Club we will do all we can to provide everything he needs to get better.

“We ask for your understanding and respect Lyle’s privacy around this matter and will not be making any more comment until further notice.”