Bafana Bafana legend Aaron Mokoena has expressed concern over the absence of Burnley and Bafana striker Lyle Foster from the AFCON squad.
Bafana’s AFCON title ambitions were dealt a blow when it emerged that Foster would not be part of the travelling squad due to Ivory Coast at his own request and the advice of Burnley's medical team as he battles issues around his mental health.
READ | Percy Tau addresses Foster, Mothiba's Bafana absence
Much to South Africans and Bafana head coach Broos’ surprise, Foster has featured a prominent role in each of Burnley's last four Premier League matches, raising question marks over the decision to
Speaking on Radio2000 on Tuesday, Mokoena said he was confused by the striker's absence.
"I fail to understand how he continues to play for Burnley in a high-pressure environment but can't come and play for his country," Mokoena said.
"What pains me is that we don't know if this was Lyle Foster's decision or the club. If it's his decision, then he should have come to play for the country. If he doesn't want to play for the country anymore, he must be bold enough to say it. It's up to this boy to tell us."
ALSO READ | Williams issues message to South Africans ahead of AFCON trip
Broos has also expressed his surprise with the absence of Foster, who was the top scorer for Bafana in the AFCON qualifiers, but insists that it is a decision based on medical recommendation.
"Don’t forget that three weeks ago, Foster himself wrote a letter to SAFA that he didn’t want to assist the AFCON because of mental problems," Broos told SABC Sport in December.
"That’s the story of Lyle Foster. I’m not happy that he’s not there, because he’s a very good striker, but again this is a medical decision and I can’t do anything about it."
Meanwhile, Bafana take on Lesotho in a practice match to be played in Pretoria on Wednesday before flying to Ivory Coast on Thursday.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
Click HERE to register!
