Bafana players remain upbeat

Rustenburg - Bafana Bafana players on Thursday said it did not matter that the games against Zambia and Ghana were downgraded from international friendlies to practice matches.

“It's not a disappointment,” Bafana player Granwald Scott said in Rustenburg.

“Obviously you want caps every time you go and play for your country, but this is more about being an opportunity for the coach to have a better look at you. Just being here is an honour.”

The decision on January 2 to declare the matches as practice, or effectively training games, was made due to the unavailability of top players with club commitments.

The situation, however, presented the younger fringe players in South Africa a rare chance to impress selectors.

“There's always the next time for you to get a call-up. For me it's not a big thing. Just to get some game time and show the coach what you can do is what we're focusing on," said Scott.

Kaizer Chiefs striker Lehlohonolo Majoro said he would not take any national selection for granted.

“It was an important call-up for me. It's always good to cut your break and be at your level best,” said Majoro.

Many of the players not initially included in the squad cut their off-season break short to join the team.

“This camp really boosted me in fitness and sharpness. The more you play, the more you gain confidence," he said.

“Not everyone can get a call-up, so for you to be here you must be happy, whether it's a friendly or whether you don't earn caps it's about the opportunity.

“To be here in national colours it shows you're doing your job at your club, so I'm not disappointed, but just happy to be here.

“I'm getting to play with different players and see how they think and behave in a footballing manner.”