Mashaba spoilt for choice

Johannesburg - South African Football Association president Kirsten Nematandani confirmed the Under-23 side will be afforded all the players they require for the upcoming 2012 Olympic Games qualifiers.

SAFA met with the Premier Soccer League and National Soccer League this week where it was decided U23 coach Shakes Mashaba will have first pick of players from the respective PSL and NFD teams.

The committee also ruled that scheduled matches between NFD outfits who have allowed players to leave for the tournament will be rescheduled, although PSL matches under the same circumstances will go ahead as originally planned.

"Considering that this was not a FIFA sanctioned date, I would like to thank all for the spirit that prevailed at the meeting for the release of these players and the continuous cooperation from the League in the interest of national pride," Nematandani told the PSL's official website.

"I also want to wish the national team coach and the entire squad the best of luck in their quest to qualify for the Olympics next year."

The U23s have been drawn in Group A alongside Gabon, Ivory Coast and Egypt, and begin the road to London on 26 November against the Black Panthers.