The inclusion of Thabang Matuludi in the preliminary squad named by new South Africa coach Pitso Mosimane has come as a surprise, given that the Polokwane City right-back has yet to play this season, as a cloud of confusion continues over his absence.
Mosimane named 35 players for this month’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea, plus a friendly against Egypt, but the numbers will be whittled down next week.
Matuludi was part of the squad that went to the World Cup, although he did not play at the tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the US, but he has not featured in any of his club’s six matches this season, including Friday’s 2-2 draw in the Betway Premiership away against Marumo Gallants at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace.
Polokwane City coach Willy Moloto said after the game he was sticking with Surprise Manthosi at right back because the 21-year-old had started the season well after stepping into Matuludi’s position.
“Why change something if it's not broken? Thabang will come back, he’s still part of us,” Moloto said.
“He's staying with us. A lot of media are talking badly about Thabang and saying he is not at training. Thabang is always at training. He comes to attend our game. So when he gets an opportunity, then he'll come back and play.”
But other sources close to the club say Matuludi has not been training regularly amid a desire to move away, and with multiple media sources saying that Mamelodi Sundowns, whose first-choice right back Khuliso Mudau last month suffered a serious injury and will be out for months, are leading the race to sign him. They have until 21 September to secure a deal before the transfer window closes.
Mosimane also called up Thapelo Morena of Sundowns and Orlando Pirates’ Kamogoleo Sebebelele, as well as newcomer Tshepo Mashiloane, who is at Sekhukhune United on loan from Pirates.