Themba Zwane's return to Bafana Bafana after an absence of over a year to get his first call-up under Hugo Broos has received a thunderous applause at Chloorkop.
The Mamelodi Sundowns star's continued omission by Broos has been a subject of arguments as his club form has always been screaming that he is worthy of wearing the national team jersey.
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Asked about his omission in a recent interview with this publication he was honest in his response.
"I always hear people talk about that but to be honest for me I respect the decision of the coach.
"Such is the nature of football and for me, I just have to do my job at my club. Whatever else happens after that is beyond my control," said Zwane.
Now, Zwane's coach at Sundowns – Rulani Mokwena – has added his voice about the return of the 33-year-old.
"I've been advocating for this," says Mokwena.
"I want to take my hat off to Hugo Broos because it's one thing to be stubborn as a coach and stubborn in a direction that I mean… let's be honest, in his position, show m, someone, better [than Zwane].
"And when you have that type of player and that type of quality available to assist your national team, in my opinion… you're bringing the player to the national team because it's 50-million heart and souls.
"When you have the humility to be able to correct certain narratives or opinions that you have formulated, that shows incredible leadership.
"That's how football should always be, football should always be about meritocracy, football should always be about the best players getting the best opportunities to give their best, and particularly when it's about representing your national team, it's great news," says Mokwena.
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