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Cape Town - Former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper John Tlale believes Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo deserves his national call-up for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Gambia next month.
Mhlongo has recently made his way back from a long injury lay-off to reclaim the number one jersey at Pirates, and Tlale feels it's time for the 25-year-old shot stopper to do the same at Bafana, following his first senior national team call-up this week.
"His game has all been about hard work and bravery and without a doubt Mhlongo deserves the call up. His absence was felt at Pirates when he was injured and that alone tells you that he is a good goalkeeper. He earned the call up on merit," Tlale told Goal website.
"There is still a long way to go for Mhlongo and he needs to show the same confidence he has shown at Pirates when he joins the national team camp.
"He may not be on the same level as Khune as yet, but if he continues to work hard and play with confidence, he will surely be on his level soon."
Bafana take on Gambia on Saturday, June 4.
