Shabba ready despite slight hip injury
Midfielder the most capped in camp
Bafana returnee Siphiwe Tshabalala is raring to go for the clash against Senegal on Friday (7pm) despite the fact that he’s carrying a hip injury.
Shabba, who is the most experienced player in the team with 88 caps, trained with the national team for the first time yesterday at the match venue and was rested at some point, which was a precaution for the slight injury.
Defender Thulani Hlatshwayo was also rested towards the end of the morning session because of a bruised toe.
Both are expected to be fit and Tshabalala, who has been described as one of the most influential players in the league by Bafana Bafana coach Stuart Baxter, is delighted to be a part of a group that is aiming to surprise all by beating Senegal twice to qualify for next year’s World Cup.
“I know the importance of the game and it’s not only important for Bafana, but for us as a nation.”
The Kaizer Chiefs midfielder, 33, is hoping to use his experience – whether it’s on the field or from the bench.
“For me, it’s business as usual. I would do my best on and off the field to help the team,” he said.
Meanwhile, there was still no confirmation yesterday if goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune would play.
But Sowetan understands Khune was on his way to Polokwane to be assessed by the Bafana medical team.
Baxter revealed that Khune was willing to play with a protective mask, but the mentor insisted the final word will be from the medical team.
Hlompho Kekana has been replaced by his Sundowns teammate Tiyani Mabunda.