Thamsanqa Mkhize and Robyn Johannes, two integral members of the City squad that marched into this year’s MTN8 final, were both called up to the Bafana squad for last weekend’s World Cup qualifier against Burkina Faso. Mkhize hobbled through the closing stages of the encounter after picking up a knock, but both defenders were back in full training this week ahead of the final.
And with City’s track record of injuries to previous Bafana call-ups, McCarthy was able to breathe a sigh of relief as he mulls over his choices for his preferred starting XI this weekend.
“I’m happy that they’re back and 100% fit, and I’m glad Johannes didn’t get a knock,” McCarthy said. “There’s been a curse between Cape Town City and Bafana Bafana – Aubrey Ngoma, Judas Moseamedi, now Thami Mkhize … but lucky for me, Mkhize is now 100%, and so is Robyn. So I’ve got a fit and healthy squad to choose from.”
McCarthy was full of praise for newly minted Bafana international Mkhize, who he feels is one of the best in the country in his position, and is an example to many aspiring footballers.
“Mkhize has sent out a strong signal to any right-back in the country that they must now come and take him out of that position,” McCarthy said. “It’s been a long time coming – he’s improved remarkably from last season. He was very good, and this season I think he’s turned it up a few notches.
“He’s a fantastic guy and an unbelievable player to manage, very disciplined and self-motivated and he knows what he wants. And he’s an example to most players who want to improve – if you look at his story, he could have just crumbled and hit rock bottom, but he showed his worth and earned his call-up.
“And I hope Stuart Baxter and his coaching staff realise what they have in this kind of player, and how he is an example to many South African players, how hungry and disciplined you have to be and to take your opportunity when it comes.”