‘This is not on’: Bafana coach Broos fires back at Mokwena

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos says he is disappointed with the comments made by Mamelodi Sundowns co-coach Rulani Mokwena regarding him and his technical team.

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This is after Mokoena criticised Broos and the Bafana medical team for overworking players and failing to inform clubs on injuries picked up with the national team.

Mokwena complained that Sundowns players who were called-up for Bafana’s double header against Ethiopia in the Fifa World Cup qualifiers returned with some injuries. Mothobi Mvala, Rushine De Reuck and Thabiso Kutumela were all in the Bafana team but it was only Kutumela who was available in Sundowns’ Caf Champions League 2-2 draw against Maniema last Sunday.

“It is a very difficult situation because we can’t even communicate with the medical department. We don’t know the training program or the itinerary, we don’t get training feedback and there is no data. The cooperation from Bafana frustrates us a little bit because over the years, Sundowns has always shown the willingness to support the nation and release personnel,” said Mokwena.

Responding to Mokwena’s criticism during an interview with SAFM on Tuesday evening, Broos said he was disappointed with Mokowena’s comments.

“I’m very disappointed with the comments of Mr Mokwena. You don’t talk about your colleagues like that. He could have picked up the phone and called, instead of saying these things in the media. This is not on,” said Broos.

Meanwhile, Broos, who has been selecting mostly young players since he was appointed as Bafana coach in May, said the door is not closed for older players like Keagan Dolly.

Dolly has showed glimpses of his former self and was named Man-of-the-Match during Kaizer Chiefs’ 4-0 demolition of Chippa United last weekend after scoring a brace.

“I never said the door is closed for older players, that’s why (Sifiso) Hlanti, (Mosa) Lebusa were in the squad. Dolly is someone we know. Ok he scored in the game I watched. But let’s see, because I’m still happy with the squad,” said Broos.

“I’m watching matches to see what I need going forward. But to be honest I’m happy with the squad that I have and I might not add to the squad. Okay some players are impressing, so let’s see,” added the Belgian mentor.